From the Guidelines
To calculate the total surface area in square centimeters for each affected anatomical region of the scar, measure the length and width of the scar in each distinct anatomical region and multiply these dimensions, using the formula Area = Length × Width for regular-shaped scars or dividing irregular scars into regular shapes and summing their areas 1. When calculating the area, consider the specific anatomical regions, such as the head, neck, chest, left arm, right arm, hands, abdomen, genitals, back/buttocks, left leg, right leg, and feet. For example, for the head and neck, if there are 1-3 lesions, none greater than 1 cm in diameter, the area would be calculated accordingly, taking into account the size and number of lesions 1. Key points to consider when measuring the area include:
- Using the formula Area = Length × Width for regular-shaped scars
- Dividing irregular scars into regular shapes and summing their areas
- Considering the size and number of lesions in each anatomical region
- Documenting separate measurements for each anatomical region
- Using digital measurement tools, such as planimetry devices or smartphone apps, for more precise measurements 1. By following these steps and considering the specific characteristics of each anatomical region, clinicians can accurately calculate the total surface area of the scar and monitor its progression over time.
From the Research
Scar Assessment
- The total surface area in square centimeters for each affected anatomical region of the scar is an important factor in scar assessment, as mentioned in the study 2.
- The study 2 highlights the importance of classifying scars and choosing the best treatment modality, which includes assessing the surface area of the scar.
- However, none of the provided studies directly report the total surface area in square centimeters for each affected anatomical region of the scar.
Treatment Options
- Various treatment options are available for hypertrophic and keloid scars, including silicone-based products, intralesional injections of corticosteroids, cryotherapy, radiotherapy, laser therapy, and surgical excision, as mentioned in the studies 3, 4, and 5.
- The study 6 evaluates the efficacy and safety of Nd:YAG laser alone or in combination with intralesional injection of botulinum toxin type A or intralesional injection of steroid in the treatment of hypertrophic scars.
- The study 4 assesses the effects of laser therapy for treating hypertrophic and keloid scars, but does not provide information on the total surface area of the scars.
Scar Measurement
- The study 2 discusses the importance of scar measurement and classification, and highlights the need for a more detailed and systematic approach to scar assessment.
- The study 2 mentions that surface area is one of the factors contributing to scar formation, but does not provide a specific method for measuring the total surface area of scars.
- The Vancouver Scar Scale, mentioned in the study 6, is a tool used to evaluate the severity of scars, but it does not provide a direct measurement of the total surface area of the scar.