Post Burn Contractures
Overview
Post-burn contractures are a type of scar tissue that can form after a burn injury. These scars can cause the skin to become tight and limit movement in the affected area, which can result in significant functional impairments and discomfort.
Procedure
The treatment of post-burn contractures may involve a combination of the following procedures:
Physical Therapy: Physical therapy can help prevent post-burn contractures by maintaining range of motion in the affected area. This may include exercises to improve flexibility, strength, and coordination.
Splinting: Splinting involves the use of custom-made devices to stretch the affected area and maintain range of motion. Splinting may be recommended in conjunction with physical therapy.
Skin Grafting: Skin grafting may be necessary to treat severe post-burn contractures. This procedure involves taking healthy skin from another area of the body and transplanting it onto the affected area to improve skin texture and elasticity.
Z-Plasty: Z-plasty is a surgical technique that involves repositioning the scar tissue to make it less noticeable and improve range of motion. This procedure can help reduce the appearance of the scar and improve skin flexibility.
Tissue Expansion: Tissue expansion is a procedure that involves stretching the skin in the affected area to make room for a skin graft. This technique can be used to treat severe post-burn contractures.
Contracture Release Surgery: Contracture release surgery involves removing the scar tissue and releasing the contracted area to improve range of motion. This procedure may be performed in conjunction with skin grafting to improve the appearance and function of the affected area.
In summary, post-burn contractures are a type of scar tissue that can form after a burn injury and limit movement in the affected area. The treatment of post-burn contractures may involve a combination of physical therapy, splinting, skin grafting, Z-plasty, tissue expansion, and contracture release surgery. If you’re experiencing post-burn contractures, be sure to consult with a licensed healthcare provider to discuss your options and the potential risks and benefits of each procedure.