Early Laser for Burn Scars (EL4BS)
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Early Laser for Burn Scars (ELABS) - A multi-centre randomised, controlled trial of both the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of the treatment of hypertrophic burn scars with Pulsed Dye Laser and standard care compared to standard care alone
IRAS ID
283345
Contact name
MP Brewin
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Salisbury NHS Foundation Trust
ISRCTN Number
ISRCTN14392301
Duration of Study in the UK
3 years, 0 months, 1 days
Research summary
This three year trial will assess both the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of treatment of hypertrophic burn scars with laser in addition to standard care, as compared to standard care alone.
Hypertrophic burn scars are abnormal scars that are red, raised and firm. They affect about 120,000 people annually in the UK. Their impact on the patient is both physical and psychological; potentially reducing the ability both to perform everyday activities and to return to normal life. This can severely impact on both quality of life and mental health. More people now survive larger burns and this means more people have to live with extensive, life-long scars. The best way to treat hypertrophic burn scars has yet to be found.
The aim is to test if early treatment with pulsed dye laser (that reduces blood vessels in the scar) leads to improved outcomes for the patient; in both quality and appearance of the scar. It is thought that early laser treatment will reduce scarring by reducing their growth.
This is a 3 year gold-standard randomised, controlled trial to be undertaken by clinical staff in 7 NHS hospitals across the UK. A total of 150 NHS patients with burn scars, within 3 months of wound healing, are recruited for a period of 6 months. Half are randomly chosen to receive standard treatment, while the other half receive a course of three laser treatments plus standard care. The participants will assess their scar features and quality of life using simple questionnaires at the start and end of the trial. Patient experience and health economics will also be assessed and measured.
The results will be presented at both UK and international meetings for the burns care community; and published in relevant journals. It will also be broadcast to patient groups through charities for both burns and scars.
REC name
South West - Central Bristol Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
21/SW/0049
Date of REC Opinion
20 May 2021
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion