The running Y-V plasty for treatment of linear and cord-like burn contractures

Acta Med Iran. 2012;50(11):729-34.

Abstract

Linear and cord-like burn scar contractures are commonly treated by severing the scar in a transverse direction and skin grafting or performing Z-plasties. However, skin grafts may result in suboptimal take and contract gradually and the Z-plasty requires undermining flaps in scarred skin which may lead to the distal tip necrosis. In this article the authors present their experience with multiple Y-V plasty technique. From May 2005 to September 2009, 44 linear and narrow cord-like burn contractures in various regions of upper and lower extremities of 32 patients were treated by multiple Y-V plasty technique. The contracted scars were treated successfully in all of the patients. No major post-operative complications or contracture recurrence were observed during the follow up period of 6 to 24 months in this series of patients. By creating a longer length, running Y-V plasty can relax the contracted scar. Considering the advantages and excellent results in the treated patients in this study group, and also other presented series, multiple Y-V plasty can be recommended as a very useful and safe technique for the treatment of linear and cordlike burn contractures.

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Burns / complications
  • Burns / surgery*
  • Child
  • Child, Preschool
  • Cicatrix / etiology
  • Cicatrix / surgery*
  • Contracture / etiology
  • Contracture / surgery*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Infant
  • Lower Extremity / surgery*
  • Male
  • Plastic Surgery Procedures / methods
  • Skin Transplantation / methods*
  • Surgical Flaps*
  • Suture Techniques
  • Treatment Outcome
  • Upper Extremity / surgery*
  • Wound Healing