Keloids After Car Accident: Causes and Treatment Options

Q: Keloids After Car Accident: Causes and Treatment Options

Hello： For raised scars, you should continue to apply artificial skin for up to 6 months. <br>You can return for follow-up visits to determine if scar injection is necessary. <br>Areas of the wound that experience tension are more prone to hyperplasia, making care more challengin

Keloid from a car accident injury?

Hello, doctor.
I was in a car accident previously, and I had a wound on my ankle that was covered with a silicone dressing.
Initially, the doctor said the wound was healing well and that I could stop using the dressing after another week, as the wound was quite flat at that time.
However, I was concerned about my pants and shoes rubbing against it, so I continued to apply the dressing for an additional four to five days (with changes).
Later, I noticed it became very itchy, and when I removed the dressing, the wound had become raised and itchy.
Why did the wound, which was initially flat, become swollen as it was healing? I have been using silicone dressings, but since the area is somewhat large, I am worried.
What can I do to make it less noticeable?

Lala, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/01/15

Dr. Lu Daokuan reply Plastic Surgery

Hello: For raised scars, you should continue to apply artificial skin for up to 6 months.
You can return for follow-up visits to determine if scar injection is necessary.
Areas of the wound that experience tension are more prone to hyperplasia, making care more challenging.
Dr.
Lu

Reply Date: 2015/01/15

More Info

Keloids are a type of raised scar that can develop after an injury, including those from car accidents. They occur when the body produces an excess of collagen during the healing process, leading to a thick, raised area of scar tissue. Understanding the causes and treatment options for keloids is crucial for managing their appearance and discomfort.

Causes of Keloids
1. Genetic Predisposition: Some individuals are genetically predisposed to developing keloids. If you have a family history of keloids, you may be at a higher risk.

2. Injury or Surgery: Keloids can form after any type of skin injury, including cuts, burns, or surgical incisions. In your case, the car accident injury to your ankle may have triggered the keloid formation.

3. Skin Tension: Areas of the body that experience tension or movement, such as joints, are more prone to keloid formation. The ankle is a joint that experiences a lot of movement, which could contribute to the development of a keloid.

4. Prolonged Irritation: In your situation, the prolonged use of adhesive dressings may have caused irritation to the skin, leading to an inflammatory response that can promote keloid formation. The itching you experienced is a common symptom of this inflammatory process.

Treatment Options for Keloids
1. Silicone Gel Sheets: These are often recommended for flattening keloids. They can help reduce the size and improve the appearance of the scar. They should be applied for several hours a day over a period of weeks to months.

2. Steroid Injections: Corticosteroid injections can help reduce inflammation and flatten keloids. This treatment is typically administered by a healthcare professional and may require multiple sessions.

3. Cryotherapy: This involves freezing the keloid with liquid nitrogen, which can help reduce its size. This treatment is often combined with steroid injections for better results.

4. Surgical Removal: In some cases, keloids can be surgically removed. However, there is a risk that the keloid may return after surgery, sometimes even larger than before.

5. Laser Therapy: Laser treatments can help reduce the redness and size of keloids. This method is often used in conjunction with other treatments.

6. Pressure Therapy: Applying pressure to the keloid using specialized dressings can help flatten it over time.

Preventive Measures
To minimize the risk of keloid formation after an injury, consider the following:
- Avoid Irritation: Try to minimize friction and irritation to the healing area. If you need to cover the wound, use breathable materials that do not stick to the skin.

- Keep the Area Moisturized: Using a gentle moisturizer can help keep the skin hydrated and may reduce the risk of excessive scarring.

- Follow Up with Your Doctor: Regular check-ups with your healthcare provider can help monitor the healing process and address any concerns early on.

Conclusion
Keloids can be a frustrating outcome of an injury, but understanding their causes and treatment options can help you manage them effectively. If you notice that your keloid is becoming more pronounced or causing discomfort, it is advisable to consult with a dermatologist or a healthcare professional who specializes in scar management. They can provide personalized recommendations based on the specifics of your situation and help you achieve the best possible outcome for your scar.

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