Clinical practice guideline for pediatric scar prevention and treatment (2025 edition)

Abstract Children constitute a key population for scar prevention and treatment because of the unique features of their skin’s physiological structure and psychosomatic growth. Currently, most approaches to pediatric scar management are formulated with reference to adult-related consensuses and guidelines, which fail to fully account for the specific characteristics of pediatric scars and their distinct needs in relation to growth and development. As a result, there are controversies regarding specific prevention and treatment strategies. To address this limitation, the Chinese Burn Association brought together domestic and international experts from disciplines relevant to the field of scar prevention and treatment. Guided by evidence-based medical evidence, drawing on domestic and international literature, and integrating the clinical experience of specialist physicians, the branch first conducted consultations on clinical issues and then organized multiple rounds of expert meetings for discussions. Eventually, the Clinical practice guideline for pediatric scar prevention and treatment (2025 edition) was developed. Focusing on 10 key aspects of pediatric scar prevention and treatment, the guideline formulates 20 recommendation opinions. It also elaborates on the remaining controversial issues in this field, aiming to provide scientific guidance for the entire process of prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation of scars in children aged 1–14 years.