Abstract: Objective To demonstrate whether scars initiated by mechanical load were visually and histopathologically identical to human hypertrophic scars. Methods A 2 cm linear full-thickness incision was made on the dorsum of the mouse. On postoperative day 4, tension on the wounds was created and lasted for 2 weeks. Macroscopic and histological characteristics were examined at day 1, 30, 60 after traction, respectively. The changes of scararea, velative collagen density and cellulartty were cal;culated. Results Resulting scars were structurally identical to human hypertrophic scars and were persisted for more than 60 days. However, area of scars was gradually shrinking. Conclusion Hyperthophic scar in animal model could be initiated by mechanical load.

Key words: Mechanical load, Hypertrophic scars, Hair follicle regeneration