Scar assessment: Current problems and future solutions

Current problems in the assessment of scars are discussed. The concept of s ubjective and objective aspects of scar assessment is introduced. The patie nt's own view of the scar (the subjective component) can currently be asses sed and may be very influential in determining the patient's quality of lif e, irrespective of the actual physical characteristics of the scar. The obj ective aspects of the scar, including size, shape, texture, and pliability, are currently difficult to measure. Although the Vancouver Scar Scale has been used as the standard for objective measurements, there are problems wi th both the validity and reliability of this instrument. Various imaging te chniques may permit more reliable and accurate methods for measuring the qu antitative aspects of scars.