Paper Tape Improves Scar Aesthetics and Prevents Wound Closure Complications

BACKGROUND: There is uncertainty whether postoperative application of paper tape (PT) improves scar aesthetics and reduces wound closure complications. This study aims to review and assess the quality of applicable findings from studies investigating PT’s efficacy. METHODS: PubMed and SCOPUS were queried using the search terms “((“paper tape”) AND (wound OR closure OR heal* OR complication OR skin OR prevent* OR scar*))”. Articles that were duplicates, basic science, and not clinically relevant were excluded. Level of evidence was assessed using the ASPS Rating Scale for Therapeutic Studies, ranging from I (highest) to V (lowest). RESULTS: Of 186 publications reviewed, 8 were included. Five studies reported statistically significant positive outcomes on scar aesthetics and wound closure. One study (n=70) found 0% hypertrophic scarring in the PT group compared to 41% in the control group. Two studies (n=300 and n=60) reported reduced skin closure time with PT versus sutures. One study (n=163) demonstrated superior aesthetic outcomes with woven PT over surgical tape. One study (n=47) found silicone sheets produced better, but not clinically meaningful, scar appearance than PT. The remaining three studies (n=42, n=64, and n=4) reported cosmetically satisfactory scarring post-PT. Two studies were rated Level I, 3 Level II, 2 Level IV, and 1 Level V. Heterogeneity in study designs evaluating PT application limit outcome comparison. CONCLUSIONS: The data support PT application for optimization of scar and wound management. Lack of higher levels of evidence, however, suggests the importance of additional randomized controlled trials to rigorously evaluate this promising approach.