The Postburn Elbow Medial Flexion Scar Contracture Treatment with Trapeze-Flap Plasty

Abstract

Joint elbow flexion medial contracture is a result of burns and scars of elbow flexion medial (FM) surface (cubital fossa). Scars restrict extension and impair upper extremity function. Attempts to extend the joint tear the scars, fissures appear, and ulcerations are seen more frequently than in other joint contractures. Pain during extension impairs all upper extremity function. Medial elbow flexion contracture should therefore be released early. We studied and treated patients with medial elbow contractures: anatomy and clinical signs, and compared the efficacy of triangular-flap techniques with trapeze-flap plasty. We ascertained that the most effective method for medial contractures is trapeze-flap plasty based on adipose-scars trapezoid flaps.