Scar Appearance After Postoperative Hydrocolloid Dressing Versus Standard Petrolatum Ointment

Scar Appearance After Postoperative Hydrocolloid Dressing Versus Standard Petrolatum Ointment: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Patients will be randomized either to receive standard daily dressing or hydrocolloid dressing using a randomization generator. After closing the wound with the sutures,the scar will be covered by a hydrocolloid dressing, which will be left in place for 7 days(Experimental) or the standard dressing (Control) that will be covered with petrolatum jelly and bandaging during this time period, which has to be re-applied daily. Patients and dermatologic surgeons will then complete surveys 7 days, 30 days, and 90 days after surgery to evaluate the cosmetic appearance of these scars.

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Adult > 18 years of age
2. Linear scars
3. Patients underwent conventional excision or Mohs micrographic surgery for primary cutaneous cancer or other cutaneous condition that required surgical intervention

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Scar localization on acral or hair bearing sites
2. Patients unable to converse in English
3. Patients requiring flap or graft for closure of wound
4. History of allergy to adhesives
5. Patient using topical chemotherapy agents on the surgical site or planning to start it within 3 months after surgery
6. Use of hydrocolloid dressings for post-operative wound care in the past