Reindl N, Seitz S, Schleier M, Besendörfer M, Diez S (2026)
Publication Type: Journal article
Publication year: 2026
Book Volume: 42
Article Number: 57
Journal Issue: 1
DOI: 10.1007/s00383-025-06287-1
Purpose: Postoperative scarring remains a major concern for patients and parents following repair of congenital abdominal wall defects. This study evaluated perceptions of postoperative scars in children after omphalocele or gastroschisis repair, comparing self-assessments with parental evaluations. We hypothesized that parents perceive scarring more negatively than their children. Methods: A single-center study was conducted among patients treated for omphalocele or gastroschisis at the Department of Pediatric Surgery, University Hospital Erlangen (2001–2011). Between July 2022 and March 2023, patients and their parents completed the Patient and Observer Scar Assessment Scale (POSAS) 2.0, Patient Scar Assessment Questionnaire (PSAQ), and Short Form-36 (SF-36). Exclusion criteria were death or psychomotor impairment precluding reliable self-assessment. Results: Twenty-eight participants (61% gastroschisis, 39% omphalocele) were included. Parents rated scar appearance more negatively than their children (POSAS overall impression p = 0.040; appearance p = 0.002 in omphalocele). PSAQ revealed discrepancies regarding scar-related symptoms (p = 0.006) and satisfaction (p = 0.009 total; p = 0.038 omphalocele). Parents tended to underestimate children’s physical complaints (p = 0.099). No differences were found between defect types. SF-36 indicated high overall quality of life (mean 79.9 ± 13.3). Conclusion: Significant parent–child differences exist in scar perception. Parents emphasize cosmetic concerns, whereas children report physical symptoms. Larger studies are warranted to guide tailored postoperative support.
APA:
Reindl, N., Seitz, S., Schleier, M., Besendörfer, M., & Diez, S. (2026). Long-term follow-up of scar quality and satisfaction after surgical closure of congenital abdominal wall defects: a single center perspective. Pediatric Surgery International, 42(1). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00383-025-06287-1
MLA:
Reindl, Natalie, et al. "Long-term follow-up of scar quality and satisfaction after surgical closure of congenital abdominal wall defects: a single center perspective." Pediatric Surgery International 42.1 (2026).
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