Effects of shock wave therapy on surgical scars

The Effects of Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy in Different Stages of Scar Formation in Postsurgical Scars Especially After Abdominplasty and Breast Reduction.

Not applicable Interventional Universiteit Antwerpen · NCT06825039

This study is testing whether shock wave therapy can help improve the appearance and symptoms of surgical scars in patients who have had procedures like tummy tucks and breast reductions.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment150 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 80 Years
SexAll
SponsorUniversiteit Antwerpen Academic / other
Locations4 sites (Antwerp, Antwerp and 3 other locations)
Trial IDNCT06825039 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates the impact of extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) on postsurgical scars, particularly those resulting from abdominoplasty and breast reduction. It aims to understand the underlying mechanisms of how ESWT influences cellular pathways related to scar formation and healing. The study will involve eligible patients who have developed dermal scars after surgery, and it will assess the effectiveness of ESWT in improving scar appearance and symptoms. The research is conducted at multiple locations in Antwerp, Belgium.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18 to 80 who have undergone abdominoplasty and have developed a dermal scar.

Not a fit: Patients with existing skin diseases, previous surgeries at the scar site, or those unable to provide informed consent may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this therapy could significantly improve the healing and appearance of surgical scars, enhancing patients' quality of life.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results for shock wave therapy in scar management, indicating potential for success in this approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion criteria

* Eligible patients aged between 18 and 80 years
* Dutch or English speaking
* Patients who had undergone an abdominoplasty resulting in a dermal scar
* Informed consent (approved by the ethics committee) will be provided before the surgical intervention Exclusion criteria
* All type of skin diseases or dermatological problems
* Previous surgery or ESWT intervention at the current scar site
* Age under 18 years or above 80 years
* Inability to provide informed consent
* Expected problems in therapy compliance or follow up
* Pregnancy

Where this trial is running

Antwerp, Antwerp and 3 other locations

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions ScarShockwave TherapySkin scars, Post surgical, Underlying mechanisms, Shock wave
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.