Surgical treatment algorithms for post-burn contractures

Abstract

Burn contractures produce restrictions in motion and unacceptable aesthetic results, frequently with persistent wounds. Proper planning and tissue selection are essential to minimize donor site morbidity optimizing outcomes. The principle of burn reconstructive surgery requires that the defects after release should be replaced with donor tissues which have matching texture and color as well as enough pliability. Autologous skin grafting or flap surgeries meet these criteria to replace scar tissues and resurface the subsequent to post-released scar defects. Despite the benefits, the use of flaps is often limited in burn patients for many reasons. If a surgeon intends to release completely and reconstruct in one-stage operation, a large defect may result in large donor site morbidity, necessitating flap surgery including free flap surgery. A lot of different methods and procedures are available for resurfacing the defects, and these are reviewed. In this article, algorithms for the release of burn contractures and reconstructive methods are presented. These treatment algorithms should aid in achieving significant improvement in both joint motions and aesthetic deformities.