Free flaps in scar treatment

Evidence from laboratory and animal studies provides groundwork for understanding mechanisms and potential before human studies continue.

• Level A · Stronger Clinical Evidence
• Level B · Emerging clinical evidence with positive signals
• Level C · Early human research exploring benefits
• Level D · Scientific groundwork from lab and animal studies
• Emerging · Emerging topic under active research

Abstract (original English)

Introduction Scar management needs defined concepts and an algorithm to restore functional and aesthetic units. After an unsuccessful conservative treatment, surgical measures provide a vast spectrum of possibilities for remediation. The spectrum of possibilities consists of excision and Z-plasty, regional flaps, vascularized pedicled flaps, tissue expansion, and finally free tissue transfer. Severe scarring and highly destructed tissues with inferior functional and aesthetic units can be effectively treated with radical excision and free flap reconstruction. The complexity of flap architecture and tissue qualities allows for an individualized approach. Specific attention should be paid to the long-term consequences of severe scarring with progressive loss of functionality. Materials and methods We worked out the most common surgical approaches and treatment algorithm for a stepwise and effective approach. Part of this algorithm is a seven-step surgical approach. Results This article provides modern plastic and reconstructive surgery concepts with an algorithm for scar management. Discussion The treatment of scars follows an algorithm with the level of complexity of techniques adjusted to the individual case and the conditions. Disabilities induced by scarring can lead to further functional loss. In these cases, surgical strategies have to be considered.

Evidence level

Evidence from laboratory and animal studies provides groundwork for understanding mechanisms and potential before human studies continue.

Browse all related research

Filter the research library by this study's title keywords, author, or publication year.