Shear Wave Elastography of the Skin following Radial Forearm Free Flap Surgery in Transgender Patients: Observational Study.

Details

Serval ID
serval:BIB_BD43B6EBB39E
Type
Article: article from journal or magazin.
Collection
Publications
Institution
Title
Shear Wave Elastography of the Skin following Radial Forearm Free Flap Surgery in Transgender Patients: Observational Study.
Journal
Journal of clinical medicine
Author(s)
Guiotto M., Sciboz O.C., Arquero C., Schiraldi L., Di Summa P., Bauquis O., Durand S.
ISSN
2077-0383 (Print)
ISSN-L
2077-0383
Publication state
Published
Issued date
20/08/2024
Peer-reviewed
Oui
Volume
13
Number
16
Language
english
Notes
Publication types: Journal Article
Publication Status: epublish
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.
Keywords
Patient and Observer Scar Assessment Scale (POSAS), radial forearm free flap, shear wave elastography, transgender, ultrasound, wound healing
Pubmed
Web of science
Open Access
Yes
Create date
09/09/2024 14:40
Last modification date
02/11/2024 7:10
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