How to Train on the Vancouver Scar Scale
The Vancouver Scar Scale is a quantitative objective scale which seeks to provide a standard for analyzing scar tissue. The scale is based on four values: pliability, height, vascularity and pigmentation. The four categories are given a score between 0 and 3 or 0 and 4, depending on the value. Although the scale attempts to quantify these values, evaluation of the scale depends on the experience and skill of the examiner.
Instructions
Assess the pliability of the scar. Pliability is the general flexibility or movement of the scar and is rated from 0 to 4. A zero value is considered normal skin, 1 is a supple soft scar, 2 is a yielding scar, 3 is a firm scar and 4 is an adherent scar. Determination of this value may require you to touch the scar directly or ask for the patient's personal observations.
Measure the height of the scar. Since scars can protrude above the normal skin line, a height measurement can help to assess the need for scar removal or treatment. A value of 0 denotes no height, a value of 1 is a scar between .12 and .16 inches, a value of 2 is a scar between 0.2 and .24 inches and a value of 3 is a scar over .24 inches.
Look at the scar and determine the value of vascularity. Vascularity is the visibility of veins and arteries through the skin. If no vascularity is visible, the scar is rated a zero for normal. Pink vascularity receives a value of 1, red vascularity receives a value of 2 and purple receives a value of 3.
Determine the color of pigmentation in the scar. Pigmentation is an abnormal discoloration of the skin or scar tissue. A zero pigmentation value is a sign of normal color. Slight pigmentation is given a value of 1, medium pigmentation is given a value of 2 and severe pigmentation is given a value of 3.