European Burn Journal
Within-Patient, Evaluator-Blinded, Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial to Assess the Efficacy of Microneedling for the Treatment of Hypertrophic Scars in Adult Burn Survivors
By Bernadette Nedelec, Elisabeth Marois-Pagé, Zoë Edger-Lacoursière and 6 others.
Abstract
Objectives
Microneedling is a promising treatment for hypertrophic scars (HSc); however, documentation of its effects remains limited. The purpose of this study was to objectively quantify scar changes and patient-reported outcomes following microneedling compared with within-patient matched control scars.
Methods
Thirty-six adult burn survivors with two similar HSc and who completed the study received five microneedling treatments at six-week intervals in addition to usual care on a randomly assigned HSc. The matched scar received usual care alone. Objective outcomes (elasticity, erythema, melanin, thickness, and transepidermal water loss (TEWL)) were assessed at baseline and at 6 and 12 weeks post-treatment. Participant perception was evaluated using the Patient Scar Assessment Scale at baseline and at 6 weeks post-treatment.