Mechanistic basis of ablative CO2 laser in treating hypertrophic scars
Research type
Research Study
Full title
A prospective intra-patient single-blinded randomised trial to examine the mechanistic basis of fractional ablative carbon dioxide laser therapy in treating adult burns and/or trauma patients with hypertrophic scarring
IRAS ID
262030
Contact name
Naiem Moiemen
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University Hospital Birmingham Foundation Trust
Duration of Study in the UK
2 years, 0 months, 0 days
Research summary
Thickened or hypertrophic scarring is a major clinical problem for patients who have suffered burns, trauma or surgical procedures. \nThe impact on the patient can be physically and psychologically profound causing restricted movement and function, altered sensations, psychological distress, body image and confidence impacting on relationships and engagement in activities. This is shown to be one of the leading causes of years lost to ill health, disability and early death.\nAlthough advances in early aggressive assessment and management of patients with burns, has improved treatment and extended the lives of otherwise fatal injuries, progress towards the prevention and treatment of thickened scarring has been slow. Patients are typically treated with non-invasive measures like massaging, dressings or injections and sometimes they require surgical corrections.\nLaser therapy has been used since 1980s, but more recent improvements of scar appearance with fewer complications and better patient satisfaction has been shown with the use of fractional carbon dioxide laser.\nAt present there is a lack of evidence to understand the mechanisms that facilitate scar reduction with laser treatment. This study aims to answer this question.\nThis is an observational cohort study which will look at the biomarkers from blood and tissue sample taken at 4 time points during the study. Each participant will also undergo subjective and objective scar assessment at 3 time points during the study. The participants will have a total of 5 visits with a course of 3 laser treatments. \nSixty adult participants who have a thickened or hypertrophic scar following a deep burn or trauma more than 12 months to joining the trial will be recruited over the period of 2 years.\nThe trial will be carried across 2 burns centres, the Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham and the Morriston Hospital, Swansea. \n
REC name
North of Scotland Research Ethics Committee 1
REC reference
19/NS/0125
Date of REC Opinion
29 Jul 2019
REC opinion
Favourable Opinion