[Repair and functional reconstruction of severe electrical burns of wrist].

OBJECTIVE

To reduce amputation rate of severe electrical burn of wrist and to promote partial recovery of the injuried hand.

METHODS

From 1987 to 1999, 44 cases, with 55 limbs of severe electrical burn were classified into 4 types, according to criteria of Dr Shen Zuyao, and were all treated by primary adequate decompression, timely debridement, reconstruction of blood circulation in cases complicated with blood vessel injury, and skin flap grafting from chest, abdomen or inguinal area, followed by treatment of anti-coaggluation and anti-infection. Once the wound healed, auto- or allo-transplantation or transferring of tendons were performed to repair tendon defect, and auto-nerve or fetal nerve transplantation performed for nerve defect.

RESULTS

After the primary treatment of the 55 burned limbs, all limbs of type IV were amputated, and most of other 3 types survived. The function, including sensation and movement, of survived hands partially recovered.

CONCLUSION

Primary reconstruction of blood circulation, cover of wound with skin flap, and timely repair of sensation and motor function are very crucial approach to reduce amputation rate and to promote the survived hand function of severe electrical burns of wrists.