Abstract
Background: Ultrasound shear wave elastography (SWE) noninvasively measures the stiffness of tissue by producing and measuring tissue deformation. Scar formation, a crucial aspect of wound healing, can lead to functional and aesthetic complications when pathological. While SWE has shown promise in dermatological evaluations, its role in surgical scar assessment remains underestimated. Our study aims to investigate SWE in evaluating surgical scars at the donor site after forearm free flap surgery in transgender patients. Methods: After radial forearm free flap harvesting, the donor site was grafted with a split-thickness skin graft with or without interposition of Matriderm. Eleven patients were evaluated more than one year after surgery, using SWE alongside scar characteristics, sensory outcomes, and patient satisfaction surveys. Results: Our study revealed no significant difference in stiffness (p > 0.15), pigmentation (p = 0.32), or erythema (p = 0.06) between operated and non-operated sides. The interposition of Matriderm did not influence the stiffness. Patients significantly (p < 0.0001) reported a loss of discrimination. Patients' subjective scar evaluation appeared in line with our quantitative and objective results. Conclusions: This study contributes to the evolving understanding of SWE's role in scar assessment, highlighting its feasibility in evaluating surgical scars. However, continued research efforts are necessary to establish SWE as a reliable and objective method for surgical scar evaluation and management.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
