A burn contracture refers to the tightening and shortening of the skin that occurs after a second or third-degree burn injury. During the healing process of the burn wound, the skin around the injured area begins to contract, leading to the formation of a contracture. This contracture can cause the affected skin to become tight and restrict the normal range of motion in nearby joints.
Burn contractures can develop in various parts of the body, depending on the location of the burn injury. Common sites for burn contractures include the:
Contractures result in abnormal bending of the joints crossed by the scarred skin, leading to functional limitations.
Preventing the formation of burn contractures is a critical goal in burn care. Several preventive measures can be taken:
While these methods can prevent or reduce the severity of contractures in many cases, surgical intervention is often necessary if contractures persist.
Burn contractures should be treated as soon as possible because they can lead to restricted joint movement and, over time, permanent damage to the involved joint.
The treatment of burn contractures may involve various surgical techniques, depending on the severity and location of the contracture:
The patient is typically admitted to the hospital a day before the surgery, and routine pre-surgery investigations are conducted. During the surgery, the contracture is released, and the resulting raw area is either covered with a skin graft or a flap, depending on the specific case.
After the surgery, the patient may remain in the hospital for a period of 2 to 3 days, with longer hospitalization (7 to 10 days) required for neck contractures. Dressings are usually changed after 7 days, and regular follow-up appointments are scheduled weekly. Once the area has fully healed and the contracture is corrected, preventive measures should be taken to avoid contracture recurrence. These measures include regular massage with coconut oil, wearing pressure garments for at least 3 to 6 months, and engaging in regular exercises to maintain joint flexibility.
When a patient has multiple contractures affecting various joints, the treatment may be prioritized by Dr. Amit based on the severity and impact of the contractures. Contractures of the neck, hand, and eyelids should be addressed as early as possible to prevent significant functional limitations and deformities.
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Burn contractures are tightened, scarred areas of the skin and underlying tissues that result from burn injuries. Common causes include burns from fire, hot objects, chemicals, or radiation, and risk factors may include the degree and location of the burn.
Burn contractures can lead to restricted movement, pain, and cosmetic deformities. They may limit the range of motion of affected joints, making daily activities difficult.
Prevention involves early wound care, physical therapy, and the use of splints or pressure garments to maintain tissue elasticity and prevent contractures.
Diagnosis involves a clinical examination by a healthcare professional, assessing range of motion and functional limitations. Imaging studies like X-rays may be used to evaluate joint involvement.
Kayakriti Clinic specializes in burn contracture management with a focus on surgical release, physical therapy, and rehabilitation. Their approach includes a team of experts experienced in treating contractures.
Kayakriti Clinic offers a patient-centric approach to burn contracture treatment, providing personalized treatment plans, scar revision surgery, and post-operative care to optimize mobility and function.
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