Keystone Flap for Postburn Finger Flexion Contracture Release

Area of Science:

• Plastic Surgery
• Burn Reconstruction
• Microsurgery

Background:

• Finger flexion contractures are a significant cause of disability in burn survivors.
• Surgical release is often necessary, but covering the resulting defect presents a challenge.
• Traditional methods like skin grafts have limitations, including donor site morbidity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of a type-3 keystone flap in covering defects after surgical release of post-burn finger flexion contractures.
• To present a case study demonstrating the application and outcomes of this technique.
• To discuss the advantages and disadvantages of using keystone flaps in this context.

Main Methods:

• Surgical release of finger flexion contracture.
• Design and elevation of a type-3 keystone flap on the volar aspect of the finger.
• Reconstruction of the defect using the local keystone flap.
• Postoperative assessment of flap viability and functional outcome.

Main Results:

• The type-3 keystone flap provided satisfactory coverage for the defect.
• The procedure resulted in positive postoperative outcomes.
• The use of a local flap avoided the need for a separate skin graft and its associated donor site morbidity.

Conclusions:

• The type-3 keystone flap is a valuable addition to reconstructive options for post-burn finger flexion contractures.
• This technique offers a local tissue solution, potentially reducing complications associated with skin grafting.
• Further evaluation of this technique is warranted for broader application in plastic surgery.