Objectives: To translate and validate an Arabic version of the patient scar assessment scale (PSAS). The cosmetic appearance of a thyroidectomy scar can critically influence a patient's self-esteem. Moreover, scar evaluation tools are necessary for an evidencebased approach to scar management. Methods: This quantitative, observational, crosssectional study was conducted by administering an Arabic-translated version of the PSAS. The translation process included a forward translation into Arabic by 3 fluently bilingual otolaryngologists, a back-translation into English, and a comparison with the original items. The questionnaires were distributed to patients who underwent thyroidectomies. We included patients who underwent surgery at least 2 months previously. Results: A total of 50 patients were included in this research. The internal consistency was 0.89, with a 95% confidence interval (CI) of 0.88-0.90. The score distributions showed high correlations for all items. The Arabic-translated PSAS showed good test-retest reliability, and the Pearson correlation coefficient between the test and retest administrations was 0.84 (p<0.001). With a possible range of 6-60 points, the standard error of the mean was 5.14, and the minimal detectable change was 14.2. Conclusion: This Arabic version of the PSAS was reliable for use in Arabic-speaking communities. It will allow for comparisons between the results of investigations conducted in different countries, which aids in the exchange of information within the international scientific community.

Aldrees, T., et al. (2019). "Translation and cultural adaptation of an Arabic version of the patient scar assessment scale for thyroidectomy patients." Saudi Medical Journal 40(6): 590-594.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/31219493