Early Laser for Burn Scars (ELABS) – A Prospective Randomised, Controlled Trial (RCT) to Study the Effectiveness of the Treatment of Hypertrophic Burn Scars with Pulsed Dye Laser (PDL) and Standard Care Compared to Standard Care Alone
This parallel-arm randomised controlled trial study led by Salisbury NHS Foundation Trust in partnership with Bournemouth University, Exeter University, Bristol University and Salford University aims to assess the effectiveness of treating hypertrophic burns scars with pulsed dye laser (PDL) at an early stage of scar formation. The study compares PDL and standard care against standard care alone (baseline and 6-month follow-up). The research will recruit up to 150 patients across 7 burns centres in the UK. Outcome measures include;
- Patient and Observer Scar Scale (POSAS)
- CARe burn scale
- Quality Adjusted Life Years (QALY)
Blinded assessments include an objective measurement of the difference in scar redness at follow-up and observer-rated scar quality. Scar colour is measured objectively using a colorimeter. An economic analysis assesses the cost-effectiveness of this treatment. Qualitative interviews after follow-up identifies themes in the patient experience of the treatment process and its effectiveness in ameliorating the impact of scars. The adverse effect profile of the treatment is also mapped.
Professor Heaslip (Salford) is leading the Qualitative component of the research and the PPI
Funder: NIHR RfPB
Publications:
Team:
Dr Mark Brewin (Chief Investigator), Salisbury NHS Foundation Trust
Professor Vanessa Heaslip (Co-I, PPI Lead), University of Salford
Dr Sharon Docherty, (Co-I) Bournemouth University
Kate Breheny (Co-I), University of Bristol
Dr Shelley Rhodes (Co-I), University of Exeter
Miss Kate Attrill (Co-I) Chelsea and Westminster Hospital NHS Foundation Trust
Mrs Helen Gerrish Mid Essex Hospital Services NHS Trust
Mr Jonathon Pleat North Bristol NHS Trust