Postburn contracture (PBC) is one of the common sequelae encountered after burns in general surgical practice. Surgical management of such deformities involves release of contracture followed by cover by skin graft or skin flap. Optimum management of PBCs has always been a challenge to the surgeon because of paucity of adequate healthy skin in the affected areas. Various operative techniques are available, and the surgeon has to decide which particular technique will be more suitable for a particular patient. We have employed the techniques of release by Z-plasty, and release and skin grafting in managing PBC involving upper extremity, and this study is based on our experience with these techniques. The problem is largely preventable by good initial care, which would include elevation of the hand, appropriate splinting, early grafting of deep burns and supervised physiotherapy. Decisions behind appropriate reconstructive option play an important role in the outcome of management of post-burn contracture of fingers. Timing of treatment and maintaining the suppleness of joints before surgical procedure will improve the functional outcome. Postburn contractures are a common occurrence after severe burn injuries. It is important to understand the pathologic condition and anatomy of specific postburn deformities in order to provide comprehensive surgical care. Postburn contractures can result in a flexion contracture, boutonniere deformity, burn syndactyly, metacarpophalangeal extension contracture, wrist contracture, or claw hand.
All types of post-burn contractures and deformities are managed with very good results at Bisoniya hospital. We have kept the cost of these operations very affordable with maintaining the highest level of quality and care.
