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Hypertrophic Scar Pain

Hypertrophic scars are scars that are the result of excessive skin growth when the skin is injured. Hypertrophic scars are similar in appearance to keloid scars and may occur in any racial group. In many instances, hypertrophic scars are the result of a surgical procedure. While hypertrophic scars are started by surgical procedures continued cutting of the skin can stimulate the skin to grow additional scar tissue. As a result, treatments for this type of scar pain are medical in nature, rather than surgical.

  1. Scar Characteristics

    • Aside from hypertrophic scars that are the result of surgery, the other most common type of hypertrophic scar is the result of a burn, according to the Burn Surgery organization. Characteristics of hypertrophic scars include surface redness, raised wound surface and stiffness at the wound site. Other characteristics include increased collagen production at the scar site and itchiness and pain. Hypertrophic scars are more common in young adults and teens than in older individuals.

    Causes

    • There are several reasons for the development of hypertrophic scars and the continuation of pain even after the wound has healed. According to the Burn Surgery organization, one of the primary reasons for pain at the wound site is tension on the scar area. As the skin pulls and new skin is developing, the nerves become inflamed and painful for patients. In many cases, pain can continue for three to six months after the initial injury and resolve approximately 12 to 18 months afterward.

    Pharmacological Treatments

    • According to the Burn Surgery organization, one of the most effective treatments for hypertrophic scar pain is the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Other medications that are used for these scars include the antihistamines and corticosteroids. These medications are often prescribed as topical ointments. Another type of medication that is commonly prescribed for hypertrophic scars is interferon, which can be applied through intravenous and injection. Interferon encourages the growth of healthy collagen tissue.

    Non-Pharmacological Treatments

    • According to the Burn Surgery organization, there are numerous other treatments that do not require medications and are not surgical in nature. These include massaging the scar to encourage the growth of health tissue and flexibility. Gel sheeting can be used to encourage elasticity in the wound and scar and flexibility in the growing new tissues. Other measures include the use of ultrasonic and microwaves to heat the skin and encourage the skin to become flexible and less rigid.

    Prevention

    • According to the Burn Surgery organization, there are several measures that can be taken to prevent the development of hypertrophic scars and avoid pain as a result of this type of scarring. Preventive measures include the use of compression bandages to close the wounds completely instead of allowing spreading of the wound opening. Other measures include the use of skin grafts early in the recovery process, wound protection and the use of artificial skin substitutes early in the healing process.

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