Rating for Scar & Skin Graft

Saturday, February 10, 2007 | 0

By Dr. Christopher Brigham

In order to perform an accurate impairment assessment of a scar or skin graft, the following information needs to be obtained:

1. Are there associated abnormal signs or symptoms of the scar, and how frequently are they present? For example, is the scar/skin graft associated with decreased sensation, pain, or irritation? Are these symptoms constant or occasional?

2. Do these signs or symptoms limit the performance of activities of daily living, and how significantly? For example, reduced pliability of scar over the knees may interfere with climbing stairs. Alternatively, the scar may be sensitive to ultraviolet light and thus, limit outdoor activities.

3. Does the scar/skin graft, or the associated signs and symptoms, require any ongoing treatment, and how much?

Once this information is acquired, Table 8-2 on page 178 is referenced to determine Whole Person Impairment for the condition. It is important to note that this rating can be combined with other impairment ratings from additional regions. For example, if the skin disorder interferes with range of motion of a joint in an extremity or is associated with a peripheral nerve injury, the impairment values for these conditions can be combined at the Whole Person level.

Brigham is the editor of the Guides Newsletter and Guides Casebook. To view more of these tips visit:

www.impairment.com/tips

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