Risk factors for scar formation after surgical incision

Abstract

Background and Design:The risk factors for scar development are still being discussed by dermatologists and surgeons. The aim of this study was to analyze the independent risk factors for the development of incisional scar type which develop after an abdominal delivery. Materials and Methods: Four hundred-ninety-two women who underwent caesarean operation one year ago or earlier were included in this study. After a detailed anamnesis and physical examination, data including demographic features, type of suture materials, time of suture removal, presence of striae, family history of hypertrophic scar, history of infection and/or hematoma, and total weight gain during pregnancy were recorded from the medical reports of patients. The scars were separated into two groups as atrophic and hypertrophic. The obtained data were compared according to the type of scars. A p value of less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Both groups were similar in terms of demographic data. Atrophic scars were found in 408 of 492 patients and hypertrophic scars in 84 patients. Presence of wound site infection or hematoma (odds ratio OR: 5.64, 95%, confidence interval CI: 3.12-10.22), presence of striae (OR: 1.80, 95% CI: 1.12-2.91) and positive family history of hypertrophic scar (OR: 4.25 95% CI: 2.60-6.94) were associated with hypertrophic