Use of pressure to treat hypertrophic burn scars.

Pressure has been used since the early 1970s by burn care provides to help minimize the formation of hypertrophic scars. Although the exact mechanism of action is unknown, pressure appears clinically to enhance the scar maturation process. Bandages that can be wrapped and unwrapped or are made of a soft material are used in early scar management. Custom-made pressure garments generally are used for definitive scar management. Inserts are placed in concavities to aid in compression. Whatever intervention is used for scar management, patient and family should be educated about the realistic, potential outcome.