Role of square flap in postburn finger contracture release: A prospective study on functional and esthetic outcomes
Rohan Goel, Raman Tandon, Komal Tripathi, Sugandh GumberBackground:
Postburn finger contractures are a common cause of impairment of hand function and esthetics. Various methods have been described for the release of contractures and coverage. We evaluated the square flap method, which offers a promising approach for finger contracture release, while providing a stable cover.
Objective:
To evaluate the functional and esthetic outcomes of the square flap technique in finger contracture release.
Materials and
Methods: This prospective study was conducted on 35 fingers with postburn finger contractures. Postburn flexion contractures were released using the square flap technique. Functional outcomes were assessed by calculating Total Active Range of Motion (TAM), and esthetic outcomes were evaluated with the Vancouver Scar Scale (VSS) at 2 weeks, 1 month, and 3 months postsurgery.
Results:
Preoperative TAM improved from 134.14° ±80.5° to 237.57° ±32.28° at 3 months (
Conclusion:
The square flap technique is an effective method for finger contracture release, significantly improving function and esthetics with minimal complications.