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Indications and Predictors for Reconstructive Surgery After Hand Burns
C H van der Vlies1, S de Waard2, J Hop3
1Department of Surgery, Burn Centre, Maasstad Hospital, Rotterdam, the Netherlands; Association of Dutch Burn Centres, Maasstad Hospital, Rotterdam, the Netherlands.
The Journal of Hand Surgery
|April 1, 2017
Summary
Fifteen percent of patients with hand burns required reconstructive surgery, often multiple procedures for contractures. Extensive burns and acute surgical treatment increased the need for hand reconstruction.
Area of Science:
- Plastic Surgery
- Burn Care
- Reconstructive Surgery
Background:
- Hand burns are common, affecting 42% of burn admissions.
- Reconstructive surgery is often necessary for long-term functional recovery after hand burns.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence, indications, and types of reconstructive surgery for hand burns.
- To identify predictors for the need for reconstructive surgery after hand burns.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective cohort study of patients with acute hand burns (1998-2002).
- 10-year follow-up to collect data on reconstructive procedures, timing, and indications.
- Analysis of prognostic factors for reconstructive surgery.
Main Results:
- 15% of hand burn patients required reconstructive surgery.
- Contractures, particularly in the first web space and little finger, were primary indications.
- Larger full-thickness burn areas and acute surgical treatment predicted the need for reconstruction.
Conclusions:
- Reconstructive surgery is needed in a significant portion of hand burn patients, often requiring multiple interventions.
- Contractures of the little finger and first web space are common targets for surgical correction.
- Early surgical intervention and burn severity are key factors influencing the long-term need for hand reconstruction.
Keywords:
Hand burns