The application of delayed skin grafting combined traction in severe joint cicatricial contracture / 中华整形外科杂志

ABSTRACT

<p><b>OBJECTIVE</b>To investigate the effect of delayed skin grafting combined traction in severe joint cicatricial contracture.</p><p><b>METHODS</b>At the first stage, the joint cicatricial contracture was released completely with protection of vessels, nerves and tendons. The wound was covered with allogenetic skin or biomaterials. After skin traction for 7-14 days, the joint could reach the extension position. Then the skin graft was performed on the wound. 25 cases were treated from Mar. 2000 to May. 2013.</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>Primary healing was achieved at the second stage in all the cases. The skin graft had a satisfactory color and elasticity. Joint function was normal. All the patients were followed up for 3 months to 11 years with no hypertrophic scar and contraction relapse, except for one case who didn' t have enough active exercise on shoulder joint.</p><p><b>CONCLUSION</b>Delayed skin grafting combined traction can effectively increase the skin graft survival rate and improve the joint function recovery.</p>