title: The practical use of Z-plasty.
abstract: Properly employed, Z-plasty is a valuable way of avoiding complications of tension and contracture that may result in hypertrophic scars, and for repairing such scars if they occur. Careful preoperative planning to place the limbs of the Z in the lines of least tension and to make limbs of equal length at 60 degree angles to the central limb are essential to success. Cautious handling of the flaps and attention to hemostasis helps to ensure that success. Occasionally, Z-plasty has to be resorted to unplanned when it is found that an excision will result in tension exceeding expectations if primary closure were to be done.
mesh_terms: D002921:Cicatrix / Q000517:prevention & control* / Q000601:surgery; D062109:Dermatologic Surgical Procedures; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D011183:Postoperative Complications / Q000601:surgery; D013518:Surgery, Plastic / Q000379:methods*