Microporous Tape and Post Surgical Scars

Background: Post-surgical hypertrophic scars (HTS) are a common complication following surgical procedures, often leading to aesthetic concerns, functional impairments, and patient dissatisfaction. Various scar management techniques have been explored, but microporous tape has emerged as a simple, cost-effective, and non-invasive intervention that may reduce scar severity by minimizing mechanical tension and maintaining an optimal wound-healing environment. Aim of the study: This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of microporous tape in improving scar characteristics and scar pliability in patients with post-surgical hypertrophic scars. Subjects and Methods: A randomized controlled trial was conducted with Forty Four patients (19 Males and 25 Females) with post-surgical HTS were selected from AGA hospital and randomly distributed into two equal groups.Group A (Microporous tape group) received Microporous tape in addition to traditional physiotherapy (Deep friction massage and stretching exercises).Group B (Control group) received traditional physiotherapy (deep friction massage and stretching exercises). The treatment was given 3 sessions per week for eight weeks. Outcome measures: They were assessed with Modified Vancouver Scar Scale (VSS) for scar severity and A Schiotz tonometer device for scar pliability. All measures were taken before and after 8 weeks. In Group A, microporous tape was applied directly over the scar and worn continuously for the duration of the study. Results: Statistical analysis revealed that Group A demonstrated significantly greater improvements in VSS scores (p = 0.001) and scar pliability (p = 0.001) compared to Group B. Scar remodeling was improved in the microporous tape group due to reduced stiffness, which is associated with better collagen organization and regulation of fibroblast activity. Conclusion: Microporous tape is an effective additional treatment for hypertrophic scars that develop after surgery, according to the results. It shows promise as an alternative to conventional scar care methods due to its ability to decrease scar tension, increase scar pliability, and improve scar aesthetics. Microporous tape is a suitable addition to post-operative care procedures because it is inexpensive and simple to apply. Additional studies should be conducted to investigate the effects over the long term and to compare it to other scar-modulating treatments