Posterior arm flap in management of axillary contracture

Abstract

Introduction: Management of post burn contracture can be difficult, particularly for the axilla. Any handicap related to upper limb has a detrimental physical, psycohological, and economical effect.

Patients and methods: We have released 20 axillae in 16 patients. These patients had axillary contracture for long duration and 5 had been operated previously by release and skin graft. We used posterior arm fasciocutaneous flaps for coverage of the defect after release of contracture.

Results and conclusion: All the patients had a good post op release. Their range of movement is excellent. No post op splintage was utilised in any of the cases with no incidence of recontracture.