Evaluation of Release of Wide Post Burn Contracture of Joints Using Central Axis Propeller Flap

Abstract

BACKGROUND:Post burn contractures of joints can produce significant impact on quality of life by interfering withthe ability to perform activities of living. Varieties of techniques are available for coverage of defectfollowing contracture release. A Central axis propeller flap a strategy that used in patient withcontracture deformities. It's a reliable method of reconstruction in release of axillary, elbow andpopliteal region of knee joints contractures.OBJECTIVE:To evaluate of central axis propeller flap in wide joints post burn contractures release.PATIENTS AND METHODS:Between October 2017 to May 2019 ten patients with wide joints post burn contracture, their agerange between (10-45) years .A central axis (propeller) flap based on random sub dermal pedicleof two design was used (rhomboid design for eight patients and Namaste design for two patients) bydesigned and elevated as a “propeller,” and then rotated by 90° to straddle the defect aftercontracture release.RESULT:Good functioning result in all patients indicated by good range of motion in affected joints and noserious complication, only one case of superficial epidermal sloughing was managedconservatively.CONCLUSION:Central axis propeller flaps are reliable methods for surgical management of post burn contractureswith good range of motion .However it used scary tissue, a result appearance is cosmeticallyacceptable for those patients, when the functions the primary concern.