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This study aimed to determine if skin types can be accurately assessed via melanin scores measured with a colormeter, and whether scar characteristics of people with different skin types are different at various stages of healing. Melanin scores of a Cortex DSM Colormeter were validated against the Fitzpatrick skin type questionnaire in healthy volunteers and unaffected skin of burn and scar patients (N = 137) to determine melanin index cut-offs per skin type. Scar quality in children and adults at 3, 6, and 12 months post-burn using DSM Colormeter and the Patient and Observer Scar Assessment Scale (POSAS) was analysed in a cohort of > 1000 patients. Data from 137 individuals showed good correlation between melanin index and Fitzpatrick skin types (Spearman's rho: 0.72 Dermaspectrometer, 0.69 DSM II; p < 0.0001). Scar characteristics varied by skin type for erythema, pigmentation, vascularization, and overall POSAS scores. Children had significantly thicker scars than adults, regardless of skin type, varying from 0.3 to 1.4 points difference on the observer scale at 12 months post burn. We conclude that skin type can be objectively classified using the melanin index, showing a strong correlation with the Fitzpatrick questionnaire. Skin type influences scar outcomes, especially pigmentation and vascularization. Children, particularly those with lighter skin, tend to develop thicker scars than adults. Recognising these differences can improve scar management and patient education.
This study retrospectively reviewed 46 patients undergoing transmetatarsal amputation (TMA) between January 2017 and January 2023 to evaluate complication rates within 6 months and assess the predictive value of the SINBAD classification for re-amputation risk. Patients were categorised based on re-amputation occurrence, and clinical and demographic data were collected. Each case was evaluated using the SINBAD scoring system, with logistic regression used to assess associations. Among the patients, 28 (60.9%) experienced no re-amputation, while 18 (39.1%) underwent re-amputation. Baseline demographics and laboratory findings did not significantly differ between groups. The mean SINBAD score was significantly higher in the re-amputation group (3.67 vs. 2.29; p < 0.001), with logistic regression identifying SINBAD score as an independent predictor (OR 6.76; 95% CI: 2.18–21.02; p < 0.001). A SINBAD score of ≥ 4 was associated with a re-amputation rate of 90.9%. In conclusion, the SINBAD classification proves to be a simple and effective tool for predicting re-amputation post-TMA, facilitating risk stratification and surgical planning for diabetic foot ulcer patients.
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