03/12/2025
Alex and I were delighted to be at the Occupational Therapy show last week. Thanks to all the people who came to talk to us.
There are lots of case workers and therapists who are helping people with scars, which is amazing. It’s clear the impact of scars on individuals and their recovery is recognised by this community. It’s also clear that the NHS prioritises resource to the acute end of patient care rather than rehabilitation, this was an issue throughout the UK.
As a surgeon it was useful to hear about the patient journey and problems from a different perspective, with some really valuable insights from case workers that I will be reaching out to for collaboration. Surgeons tend to focus on procedural success, and specific outcome measures like healing time, and movement. It sounds like our patients think more about returning to work, ongoing pain, mental health changes and adapting to a life that is different to what it was. ‘Holistic’ is a trendy work these days, but a holistic treatment plan for trauma and burns patients is exactly what is needed.
Scar management is fast evolving, what we were taught when I was a plastic surgery trainee is now outdated. More can be offered than scar massage and silicone ointment. Waiting for a year before even thinking about intervening is nonsense. Carbon dioxide lasers, laser assisted drug treatment, spray on skin, bespoke garments, medical tattoo and camouflage - this is not just a surgical tool box, it’s a treasure trove. Supported by an MDT team of specialist occupational therapists, physiotherapists and psychologists you really can deliver gold standard holistic care plans for patients with scars. That’s what we offer and deliver at TVSC.
We like to see people as early as possible, so don’t wait. If you are someone with a scar that is bothering you, or you are looking after a patient with one get in touch because we can almost certainly help with recovery.
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Phone: 01865 639542