Clinical trial Recruiting at 4 sites Interventional Ages 18 to 80

Effects of shock wave therapy on surgical scars

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

Run by Universiteit Antwerpen · NCT06825039 · Data updated 2026-11-12

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

Study typeInterventional
Ages18 Years to 80 Years
SexAll
Enrollment150 (estimated)
SponsorUniversiteit Antwerpen
Academic / other
Locations4 sites (Antwerp, Antwerp and 3 other locations)
StatusRecruiting
StartedDecember 20, 2023
Main results expectedFebruary 2027
Study endsFebruary 2027
Registry record updatedMarch 6, 2025
Trial IDNCT06825039 on ClinicalTrials.gov

Is this trial a fit for you?

Likely a good fit

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

Probably 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.

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

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.

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

Who can join: the full rules

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 it's running

  • Ziekenhuis aan de Stroom
    Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
    Recruiting
  • Heilig Hart Ziekenhuis Lier
    Lier, Antwerp, Belgium
    Recruiting
  • AZ Rivierenland Rumst
    Rumst, Antwerp, Belgium
    Recruiting
  • Universitair Ziekenhuis
    Wilrijk, Antwerp, Belgium
    Recruiting

Study contacts

Similar studies

Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.

How to take part

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.