Surgical correction of congenital constriction band syndrome in children: Replacing Z-plasty with direct closure

Abstract

Congenital constriction band syndrome is a sporadic condition that may also be present in association with other congenital anomalies. It has an incidence varying from one in 1200 to one in 15,000 live births. There is a significant predilection for the upper extremities and distal limbs. The two main objectives for the treatment of congenital constriction band syndrome are improvement of function and improvement of cosmetic appearance. Different surgical techniques, such as Z-plasty, have been described and used for decades; however, direct closure after the excision of the constricting band seems to be the simplest and most appropriate, allowing the fatty tissue to naturally reposition itself under the skin. This technique is used in a two-stage approach to avoid affecting distal circulation to the limb.