Surgical Technique for Scarring

Recruiting in Palo Alto (17 mi)

Overseen by Daniel Eisen, MD

Age: 18+

Sex: Any

Travel: May Be Covered

Time Reimbursement: Varies

Trial Phase: Academic

Waitlist Available

Sponsor: University of California, Davis

No Placebo Group

Trial Summary

What is the purpose of this trial?

When patients have surgery on the neck, trunk, arms, or legs, stitches are the standard way to close the wound. Wounds always result in a scar, but doctors are always looking for ways to reduce scarring. Several studies have been done to test ways to close wounds that reduce scarring. One idea is to reduce the tension around the cut. One way to reduce tension is to free up the skin around the wound. This procedure is also called "undermining". Some studies have shown that freeing up the skin near the tips of the wound, called the "apices," is helpful for improving the cosmetic outcome of scars. This study will investigate if there are any differences in the appearances of the scar if one tip is undermined and the other is not.

Eligibility Criteria

This trial is for adults over 18 who are scheduled for skin surgery on the neck, trunk, or limbs and can return for follow-up. They must understand English and give consent. Pregnant women, those under 18, prisoners, or with very small wounds (<3cm) cannot join.

Inclusion Criteria

I am scheduled for skin surgery on my neck, trunk, or limbs that will be closed up right away.

I am 18 years old or older.

Able to give informed consent themselves

Exclusion Criteria

My wound is expected to close and is less than 3cm long.

Pregnant women

I cannot understand written or spoken English.

Treatment Details

Interventions

• Apical Undermining (Procedure)

Trial Overview The study tests a technique called 'Apical Undermining' to reduce scarring after stitches in surgeries on the neck, trunk, arms or legs. It compares scars when one tip of the wound is undermined (skin freed up) versus not.

Participant Groups

Group I: Linear Wound Closure with Apical Undermining Experimental Treatment 1 Intervention

The other side of the wound will have a cutaneous layer of sutures, as is standard of care, and will receive apical undermining.

Group II: Linear Wound Closure Active Control 1 Intervention

A cutaneous layer of sutures will be placed on one side, as is standard of care.

Find a Clinic Near You

Research Locations Nearby Select from list below to view details:

University of California, Davis - Dermatology Department Sacramento, CA

Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?

University of California, Davis Lead Sponsor

References