Topigel in the treatment of hypertrophic scars after burn injuries

The authors present the results of a medium-term study in which they investigated the therapeutic effect of the silicone elastomer TopiGel on developing hypertrophic scars in a group of patients after burn injuries classified as IIb or deeper. The hitherto published results are very encouraging. This medium-term study confirmed the hypothesis that TopiGel has a positive effect on the reduction, stabilization and normalization of hypertrophic scars. In 48 patients (96%) out of a total of 50, stabilization of the scar occurred as well as its functional and cosmetic normalization, although the subjective view of the patients or parents (in case of pediatric patients) differed in some instances. In two children (4%) only a significant reduction of the scar occurred and not normalization, due to incorrect application of the gel by the parents, lack of adherence to basic hygienic principles or the recommended procedure of gel application. In case of repeated complications, treatment was not pursued. In two patients (4%) treatment was discontinued for a short time due to an allergic skin reaction subsequently, treatment was resumed until complete stabilization of the scar was achieved. The study ruled out a positive therapeutic effect of the silicone sheet on the painfulness of a scar and old, mature hypertrophic scars.