A Multimodal Approach to Laser Treatment of Extensive Hypertrophic Burn Scar: A Case Report

Patient: Female, 9-year-old Final Diagnosis: Large hypertrophic burn scar (HBS) Symptoms: Pain while walking • leading to obvious claudication • the patient referred a significant worsening of the quality of life Clinical Procedure: — Specialty: Dermatology OBJECTIVE: Management of emergency care BACKGROUND: Hypertrophic scars from severe burns cause physical and psychological stress. Proper treatment, including CO(2) laser systems, can alleviate these burdens by enabling skin remodeling and collagen production. This study assessed the efficacy of a new laser device with 2 wavelengths (10 600 nm/1540 nm) and 2 scanning units on hypertrophic burn scar management. CASE REPORT: A 34-year-old African woman sought treatment for a large hypertrophic burn scar on her right foot. The scar, formed at age 9, was complicated by infection. She underwent 2 CO(2) sessions (Scar3 scanner), followed by 3 cycles of fractional CO(2) +1540 nm laser (µScan DOT scanner) once a month, combined with topical hyaluronic acid. She also had 2 maintenance sessions with a 595-nm dye laser to prevent scar reactivation. The CO(2) and 1540 nm laser synergy improved laxity through volumetric thermal effects, causing contraction and stimulation. This led to a softer, smaller scar with less consistency. The patient experienced significant improvement in quality of life due to alleviation of pain and restored footwear comfort. CONCLUSIONS: The hypertrophic burn scar was effectively treated using 10 600 nm and 1540 nm wavelengths, along with dye laser treatment for recurrence prevention.