[Rail plastic surgery technique in the treatment of popliteal contractures]

The case is presented of a patient aged 45 years suffering from thermal burns due to flame following the deflagration of a gas cylinder. The initial lesions involved the four limbs, in particular the knee, and the trunk. The initial taking in charge consisted in an early excision-graft of the limbs. The evolution of the burn was marked by the development of hypertrophic scars at the level of the non-transplanted zones and at the edge of the graft as also by the onset of contractures. Because of the functional problem caused by the contracture as a result of the considerably reduced extension, the patient was admitted for surgical treatment. Thanks to the rail technique described, the patient recovered normal knee function. Post-surgical treatment was straightforward with a hospitalization period of one month. The aesthetic results were satisfactory. The rail technique is part of the therapeutic arsenal for treating knee contractures. Its simplicity, easy technique, and satisfactory results, plus its easy follow-up, make it a highly appreciated technique in the treatment of this type of contracture.