Effect of Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) on Vascularity and Hypertrophic Scar Development in Burn Donor Sites: A Randomised Controlled Trial Using Objective Imaging with the Antera 3D System

This prospective, intra-subject controlled trial will evaluate the effect of Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) therapy on vascularity and scar outcomes in 20 adults with split-thickness skin graft donor sites at increased risk of hypertrophic scarring. Each participant will have two comparable donor-site areas, with one receiving IPL plus standard scar management and the other receiving standard scar management alone as an intra-subject control. IPL treatment will commence 12 weeks after complete epithelialisation, with three treatment sessions at eight-week intervals. Scar vascularity will be objectively assessed using Antera 3D imaging, with secondary outcomes including scar quality using POSAS 3.0 and health-related quality of life using the EQ-5D. Participants will be followed for 12 months following the final treatment.

Trial phase

Other

Trial participation type

This trial has been designed for the Clinical Research of a Device.

Principal investigator

Dr Sally Ng

Key inclusion data

INCLUSION: Adults aged ≥18 years; Patient receiving care through the Victorian Adult Burns Service; Healed split-thickness skin graft (STSG) donor site 12 weeks to 12 months following complete epithelialisation; Donor-site scar demonstrating evidence of increased vascularity and active scar remodelling, including one or more of: Persistent erythema, Delayed donor-site healing (>21 days), Increased vascularity on clinical assessment and/or Antera 3D imaging, Raised, firm or symptomatic scar characteristics consistent with early hypertrophic scarring; Fitzpatrick skin type III–VI; Able to provide informed consent; Able to comply with study procedures and follow-up requirements; Two comparable donor-site areas within the same anatomical region suitable for intra-subject comparison (e.g. medial and lateral thigh). EXCLUSION: Age <18 years; Unable to provide informed consent or comply with study requirements; Fitzpatrick skin type I–II; Mature donor-site scar without evidence of active remodelling; Previous scar-directed treatment to the study area, including: Laser or IPL, Corticosteroid injection, Microneedling, Surgical scar revision; Active wound breakdown or infection; Dermatological conditions that may affect pigmentation, vascularity or wound healing; Photosensitivity disorders or use of relevant photosensitising medications; Pregnancy or breastfeeding; Skin malignancy within the treatment area; Inability to obtain reliable Antera 3D imaging; Unable to attend required study follow-up appointments; Any other clinical condition that makes IPL treatment unsuitable or may significantly affect study outcomes.