: Protescal: Prevention of Hypertrophic Scar and Keloid Formation Post Caesarean Section

Wound healing assessed on 10th-day post caesarean section using REEDA scale of which the criteria assessed include redness, edema, ecchymosis, discharge and approximation. The REEDA Scale (Redness, Edema, Ecchymosis, Discharge, Approximation) scale assesses the inflammation process and tissue healing. The minimum score is 0 and the maximum score is 15; whereby the higher the score denotes the more severe the tissue trauma and healing outcome.Percentage of patients in both groups with REEDA Scale scores of 0, 1-2 and ≥ 3 is determined.

Third-month post-caesarean section, the degree of scarring was assessed using the Modified Vancouver scar scale (MVSS) which assessed pigmentation, height, pliability and vascularity of the scar. This scale focused on six parameters including scar height and thickness, pliability, vascularity, pigmentation, symptoms of itch and pain to generate a score ranging from 0 to 18 points.For the purpose of this study, a hypertrophic scar (HTS) was defined as one which was raised by at least 2 mm and had a total MVSS of 5 points or more (4). Thus a higher score would means a more hypertrophic scar formation. If a patient had more than one MVSS recorded during their follow up, the highest value was used.

Third-month post-caesarean section, the degree of scarring was assessed by colour photography if deemed necessary for comparison purposes. This would also depend on patient's agreement to her scar being photographed. If agreeable and deemed necessary, thus a patient's assessment was supplemented with colour photographs for later review and comparison.

To assess the degree of pelvic adhesion formation intra-operatively during the next caesarean section. Visual assesment (by surgeons) of intra-operative findings of pelvic adhesions noted during next caesarean section which is documented in the intra-operative notes.