Functional Outcome of Post-Burn Upper Limb Contractures in Children

Objective: To analyze the results of surgery and functional assessment in post-burn contractures in upper limbs in children. This evidence implies on how we think the impact of contracture on patients functions in two distant countries, with different cultures, skin colour and socio-economic life in Pristina –Kosovo and Bahawalpur-Pakistan. Study design: Descriptive case series study in two different countries in cooperation for a joint publication. Place and duration of study: Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery – Bahawal Victoria Hospital Bahawalpur and Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery- University Clinical Center Prishtine-Kosova , from August 2009 to August 2014. Methodology: Patients from age 9 months to 17 years with post burn contractures in upper limbs with no metabolic derangement were included in the study. After proper assessment of the functional impairment, X-rays were done and then the surgical decision was made. Different procedures were used for release and coverage of contracture depending on the type of contracture. Patient was called for follow-up up to one year after discharge. Results: 128 patients were included in study in both countries. 67 were male and 61 were female in B-Pk and 65 male and 63 female in Pr-Ks. Finger contractures are the most common. Best functional improvement was seen in the age group of 9 months to 5 years. Conclusion: Early surgical intervention results in improvement especially in young children. Type of procedure has no relation with outcome of surgery.

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