The microstomia prevention appliance: 14 years of clinical experience.

Partial- or full-thickness perioral facial burns may lead to a contracture of the tissues surrounding the oral commissures that results in microstomia. The current investigators have used the microstomia prevention appliance (MPA) exclusively in the management of commissure burns at the University of Iowa Burn Center since 1972. To assess the effectiveness of the MPA, a retrospective chart review was conducted. The study population consisted of 85 patients admitted to the center between 1974 and 1986 who had incurred burns to the perioral region or to the lower two thirds of the face. The chart analysis of 83 patients revealed that, with diligent and persistent use of the MPA, only one patient required surgical repair for the development of microstomia. The MPA has proved effective in decreasing the need for reconstructive procedures and in preventing the occurrence of microstomia.