Cost-Effectiveness of ESWT Plus Rehabilitation vs Rehabilitation Alone in Post-Burn Scars

Launched by AL HAYAH UNIVERSITY IN CAIRO · Mar 30, 2025

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is studying the effectiveness and costs of a treatment called extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) when combined with standard rehabilitation for adults who have thick, raised scars (known as hypertrophic scars) from burn injuries. The goal is to find out if this combined approach not only improves the quality of the scars and reduces pain and itching but also if it is worth the extra cost compared to rehabilitation alone. The research will look at both health outcomes and the financial aspects, helping healthcare providers understand the best ways to treat these scars.

To be eligible for the trial, participants need to be adults aged 18 to 65 who have had stable hypertrophic scars for at least six months and are experiencing significant pain or itching. They should be able to participate in daily activities so that any indirect costs, like missing work, can be tracked. Participants will receive either the combination treatment or standard rehabilitation and will be monitored for improvements in pain, scar appearance, and overall quality of life. It's important to note that certain individuals, such as pregnant women or those with specific health conditions, cannot take part in the study.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Adults aged 18-65 years. Documented hypertrophic scars following a burn injury, with scars present and stable for at least 6 months.
• • Moderate to severe scar severity as measured by a standardized clinical assessment.
• • Experiencing significant pain and/or pruritus related to the scar, with a baseline VAS score of ≥4.
• • Able to provide informed consent and comply with study procedures. Employed or engaged in daily activities such that indirect costs (absenteeism/reduced productivity) can be recorded.
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Pregnant or lactating women. Individuals with previous surgical scar revision or other invasive scar treatments within the last 6 months.
• • Patients with comorbid conditions (e.g., severe cardiovascular disease, uncontrolled diabetes) that could interfere with rehabilitation or ESWT.
• • Active skin infection in the area of the scar. Use of concurrent investigational therapies for scar management.