2025, Vol. 7, Issue 11, Part C

Author(s): Surendra Parsad Yadav, Kiran K Nakarmi, Shankar M Rai, Xu Young Qing and Babita Yadav

Abstract: Hypertrophic scarring is a common and debilitating complication of burn wound healing, often leading to functional impairment and poor cosmetic outcomes. Human skin allografts have been increasingly used as a biological dressing to optimize wound repair and potentially reduce abnormal scar formation. This meta-analytical study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of human skin allografts in minimizing hypertrophic scarring in burn wound healing compared to conventional treatment methods. A systematic search of PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library databases was conducted for studies published between 2000 and 2023. Sixteen eligible studies involving burn patients treated with human skin allografts versus standard care were included. Data were extracted on scar outcomes, and statistical analysis was performed using a random-effects model. Odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated, and heterogeneity was assessed using the I² statistic. Risk of bias was evaluated using Cochrane and Newcastle-Ottawa tools. All 16 studies reported lower rates of hypertrophic scarring in patients treated with allografts. The pooled analysis revealed a significant reduction in scar formation with allografts compared to controls (OR = 0.31, 95% CI: 0.20-0.48, p<0.001). Heterogeneity across studies was minimal (I² ≈ 0%), suggesting consistency of findings. Risk of bias was low to moderate, and no included study reported outcomes favouring control treatment. Human skin allografts significantly reduce the risk of hypertrophic scarring in burn wound healing by providing rapid wound coverage, reducing inflammation, and promoting organized tissue repair. The findings support their broader integration into burn management protocols, although further large-scale randomized controlled trials are recommended to strengthen the evidence base.

DOI: 10.22271/multi.2025.v7.i11c.843

Pages: 183-188 | Views: 112 | Downloads: 53

Download Full Article: Click Here