Influence of Sun Protection and Linear Repair of Cutaneous Surgical Defects

Launched by UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, DAVIS · Sep 29, 2021

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is looking at how using sunscreen may affect the appearance of scars after surgery on the skin. Specifically, it focuses on scars that result from a type of skin cancer surgery called Mohs micrographic surgery. In the study, one side of the surgical wound will be treated with a sunscreen containing zinc, while the other side will not receive any sunscreen. Three months after the surgery, the researchers will compare the scars on both sides to see if the sunscreen made a difference in how they look.

To participate in this trial, you need to be at least 18 years old and scheduled for a skin surgery that will be closed with a straight stitch, like on your face, head, or neck. You also need to be willing to return for a follow-up visit three months later. If you have had a bad reaction to zinc sunscreen in the past, are pregnant, or have certain health conditions, you may not be eligible to join. Participants will help researchers learn more about how sun protection can influence healing and the final appearance of scars.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • 1. Patient is ≥ 18 years of age
• • 2. Patient is able to provide informed consent
• • 3. Patient is scheduled for a cutaneous excisional surgical procedure
• • 4. Cutaneous surgical wound closed via linear repair
• • 5. Surgery performed on sunlight-exposed anatomical regions (head, face, neck, hairless scalp)
• • 6. Patient is willing to return for follow-up visit to clinic
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • 1. Patient is incarcerated
• • 2. Patient is \< 18 years of age
• • 3. Patient is pregnant
• • 4. Patient unwilling to return for 3-month follow-up
• • 5. History of reaction to zinc containing sunscreen
• • 6. History of collagen vascular disease