Precise intraoperative 60 degrees Skin Z-plasty

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Surgical Techniques

Background:

• Lengthening Z-plasty is a common surgical procedure for correcting contractures.
• Accurate angle and length measurements are crucial for successful Z-plasty outcomes.
• Existing methods may require specialized tools like templates or protractors.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide foot and ankle surgeons with a template-free technique for performing a precise 60-degree lengthening Z-plasty.
• To establish a reliable method using basic tools for surgical contracture correction.

Main Methods:

• Application of a ruler to the line of contracture.
• Utilization of basic trigonometric principles to determine flap geometry.
• Intraoperative execution of the Z-plasty without specialized angle-measuring devices.

Main Results:

• Consistent and reliable achievement of a 60-degree Z-plasty angle.
• Successful lengthening of contracted tissues.
• Demonstrated feasibility of the technique in a surgical setting.

Conclusions:

• A ruler and trigonometry provide an accurate and accessible method for performing 60-degree lengthening Z-plasties.
• This technique enhances surgical precision and reliability in contracture management.
• It offers a practical alternative to template-dependent methods for foot and ankle surgeons.