Modified Y-V Flaps for Treatment of Postburn Scar Contractures and Scar Reduction in Extremity

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: Reconstruction of postburn scar contractures is one of difficult tasks in burn plastic surgery. A linear scar contracture is usually repaired by using skin grafts, traditional or modified Z-plasty. However, the scar itself remains even if the contracture is released. Therefore, it should be suggested to reduce scars at the time of release of scar contractures. For this purpose, we have designed the Y-V flap method. This paper is presents our clinical experiences for reconstruction of postburn linear scar contractures and scar reduction by newly designed the Y-V flap. METHODS: We had 3 cases of postburn scar contractures with depressed deformities in extremities, buttock using the newly designed the Y-V flaps. The Y-V flap is made by the V shaped flap at a right angle to the scar band and it is advanced to Y incision site of opposite edge of the scar band, and this flap can correct the linear contracted scar band with moderate scar reductiontion. RESULTS: 2 cases of the postburn scar contractures were treated using the Y-V flaps. 1 case of scar contractures of extremities was reconstructed using Y-V flap and multiple Z-plasties. After postoperative follow up, relatively satisfactory results were obtained in all cases. CONCLUSION: We have had successful reconstruction of postburn scar contractures with depressed deformities by newly designed Y-V flap. The design of Y-V flap and its reliability have been introduced. The Y-V flap can be used effectively for the correction of linear scar contractures with depressed contour deformities and scar reduction.