There are very important steps in wound management in the ER. But perhaps an equally important step, and one often overlooked, is prevention and treatment of scar formation.
Skin is the largest organ in the body and an important part of the immune system as a protective barrier against germs such as bacteria.
When it is damaged, our body generates collagen protein to close the wound and protect us from infection.
While aesthetically unpleasing, a scar is the body’s natural way of healing and replacing lost or damaged skin.
The primary difference between a scar and the tissue it replaces is the alignment. While both feature collagen, scar tissue collagen is less organized in a single direction whereas the original tissue had a more complex basket weave-type formation.
Sutures, or stitches, to close larger wounds can minimize the risk of scar formation. As will treating with oral antibiotics if your doctor thinks the wound was contaminated and prone to infection.
Scars can continue to fade for up to two years. After that time, unfortunately though, it’s unlikely there will additional natural change in scar appearance.
Stick with a combination of plain Vaseline and sunscreen or silicone sheets to keep scar tissue hydrated and protected from UV rays that can further alter its appearance.