Posterior arm flap in management of axillary contracture.

INTRODUCTION

Management of post burn contracture can be difficult, particularly for the axilla. Any handicap related to upper limb has a detrimental physical, psycohological, and economical effect.

PATIENTS AND

METHODS

We have released 20 axillae in 16 patients. These patients had axillary contracture for long duration and 5 had been operated previously by release and skin graft. We used posterior arm fasciocutaneous flaps for coverage of the defect after release of contracture.

RESULTS AND

CONCLUSION

All the patients had a good post op release. Their range of movement is excellent. No post op splintage was utilised in any of the cases with no incidence of recontracture.