Measuring Functional Outcomes After Laser-Based Rehabilitation of Traumatic Scars and Burn Scar Contractures: A Structured Evidence Map and Practical Follow-Up Framework

Traumatic scars and burn scar contractures can cause pain, pruritus, restricted motion, impaired limb function, and difficulty tolerating occupational or protective equipment. Laser-based treatment is increasingly used in rehabilitation, but outcomes remain heterogeneous and often emphasize appearance. This structured narrative review and descriptive evidence map used seven PubMed/MEDLINE search blocks completed on July 21, 2026. Two authors independently screened 898 unique records from 1,191 retrieved records. Reference checking and targeted full-text review supplemented the search; 50 sources informed the framework. Randomized evidence was outcome-dependent: early pulsed dye laser improved patient-rated scar quality in the primary Early Laser for Burn Scars analysis, without consistent observer-rated or quality-of-life benefit. Two within-patient fractional carbon dioxide laser trials reported selected symptom or scar-item improvements despite no significant Vancouver Scar Scale difference. Direct evidence for objective function and return to role remained limited. We propose a minimum-plus-modules framework covering scar characteristics, symptoms, regional function, treatment burden, equipment tolerance, safety and downtime, and graded return-to-work or return-to-duty status. Assessments are linked to baseline, treatment sessions, interim review, treatment completion, and three- and six-to-12-month follow-up. The framework integrates established measures into a practical schedule; it is not a validated core outcome set and requires prospective evaluation.