title: An algorithm for the release of burn contractures of the extremities.
abstract: Burn contractures of the extremities present a clinical challenge. Flexion contractures are more common than extension contractures. The first component of treatment is adequate contracture release. A number of different methods are available for resurfacing the wound and these are reviewed. An algorithm is presented which permits a simple approach to managing burn scar contracture of the extremities.
authors.affiliation: Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Red Cross Children's Hospital, Groote Schuur Hospital, University of Cape Town, H51 OMB, Observatory, Cape Town 7925, South Africa. hudsond@uctgsh1.uct.ac.za
authors.forename: Donald A
authors.initials: DA
authors.lastname: Hudson
authors.forename: Anthony
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Renshaw
mesh_terms: D000465:Algorithms; D001134:Arm Injuries / Q000601:surgery*; D002056:Burns / Q000601:surgery*; D002921:Cicatrix / Q000601:surgery; D003286:Contracture / Q000601:surgery*; D006801:Humans; D007869:Leg Injuries / Q000601:surgery*; D013524:Surgical Flaps; D015626:Tissue Expansion