The surgical treatment of the patients with the scarring sequelae of the burn injuries of the hand

Abstract

Introduction. Hypertrophic and keloid scars as consequences of burn injuries of the hand can be physically, socially and psychologically disabling, and they are a common and an undermanaged problem. Aim of the study. To study the clinical evolution of the burn scars on the hand, of the sequelae and scar stiffness caused by it; to determine the options in the surgical treatment of correction and to establish its efficacy. Materials and methods. A descriptive-retrospective study of a group of 31 patients with scarring sequelae on the hand, which underwent surgical treatment of correction, was performed. To determine the influence of the scar process on the life quality and the postoperative results VSS (Vancouver Scar Scale), BSHS-R(Revised Burn –Specific Health Scale), UCLA (end-result score) were used. Results. The scar excision and local tissue plasty by advancement or transposition was used in 51.61% (16 patients). In 35.48% (11 patients) the substitution of the defect was performed by autodermoplasty, and in 12.9% (4 patients) a vascularized flap was used. Conclusions. The scar sequelae after burn injury limits the function of the upper limb and has a significant influence on the life quality and social integration of the patient, while its surgical correction provide functional recovery of the hand with better aesthetic restoration.