Modified Buried Vertical Mattress Suture Combined With Tension-Reducing Tape in Forearm Tattoo Resection-A Retrospective Study.

BACKGROUND

The Modified Buried Vertical Mattress Suture (MBVMS) has demonstrated potential in mitigating postoperative incision scar hyperplasia. This study aimed to retrospectively evaluate the efficacy of combining MBVMS with tension-reducing tape in minimizing scar formation following forearm tattoo resection.

METHODS

A total of 46 patients undergoing forearm tattoo resection or partial resection were included. Participants were stratified into two cohorts: a control group (n = 17) receiving traditional intradermal sutures and a research group (n = 29) treated with MBVMS combined with tension-reducing tape. Scar width was measured at predefined intervals (3, 6, and 12 months postoperatively). Scar hyperplasia was assessed using the Observer Scar Assessment Scale (OSAS) and Patient Scar Assessment Scale (PSAS).

RESULTS

Both groups exhibited initial scar widening between 3 and 6 months postoperatively, followed by gradual narrowing from 6 to 12 months. However, the research group demonstrated significantly reduced scar width at all time points compared to the control group (p < 0.05). Similarly, OSAS and PSAS scores were consistently lower in the research group (p < 0.05), indicating superior cosmetic and patient-reported outcomes.

CONCLUSION

These findings suggest that MBVMS combined with tension-reducing tape effectively reduces scar hyperplasia in forearm tattoo resection, offering a promising approach for improving postoperative aesthetic outcomes.