Using silicone tape to improve scars after abdominal surgery
Official title: Silicone Taping for the Improvement of Abdominal Donor Site Scars Following Autologous Breast Reconstruction; A Randomized, Prospective Controlled Trial
Run by Nova Scotia Health Authority · NCT04506255 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing if using silicone tape on abdominal scars after surgery can make them look better compared to leaving part of the scar without any treatment.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years to 65 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 32 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Nova Scotia Health Authority Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Halifax, Nova Scotia) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | November 16, 2020 |
| Main results expected | September 2026 |
| Study ends | December 2026 |
| Registry record updated | February 18, 2025 |
| Trial ID | NCT04506255 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are adults undergoing de novo abdominoplasty procedures as part of breast reconstruction.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with connective tissue disorders, silicone allergies, or those who smoke 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 clinical trial evaluates the effectiveness of silicone tape in improving the appearance of abdominal scars following abdominoplasty in patients undergoing breast reconstruction. Participants will have silicone tape applied to one half of their incision while the other half will receive no dressing, serving as a self-control. The study will follow 32 adult subjects over time to assess scar outcomes and determine if silicone tape provides a significant improvement compared to the standard care. The trial is conducted at the QEII Health Sciences Centre in Halifax, Nova Scotia.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could lead to improved scar appearance for patients undergoing breast reconstruction surgeries.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown promising results with silicone tape for scar management, indicating potential for success in this approach.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * undergoing de novo abdominoplasty procedures as part of their breast reconstruction Exclusion Criteria: * patients with a history of collagen disease, connective tissue disorders, psoriasis or lupus * patients with scleroderma * patients with a history of adverse reaction to adhesives or silicone allergy * patients with signs of dehiscence or infection resulting in modification to the experimental or control dressings * patients who are unable to care for their incisions * patients who are current smokers * patients who are currently on steroids.
Where it's running
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Halifax Infirmary
Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Jason G Williams, MD — Nova Scotia Health Authority
- Study coordinator: Jason G Williams, MD
- Email: Jason.Williams@nshealth.ca
- Phone: 902-473-6315
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.