Use of the 5-flap Z plasty in digital flexion contractures.
The purpose of this article is to report the use of the 5-flap Z plasty in the management of long-standing flexion contractures of the proximal interphalangeal joint of the digits (the 5-flap Z plasty has been originally described by Hirshowitz et al for the lengthening of thumb web contractures). Nine fingers in 5 patients with Stern grade I and II contractures of the proximal interphalangeal joint were included. The defect following release of the contracture was covered with the 5-flap Z plasty and Kirschner wires temporarily maintained the corrected position. The extension lag was measured preoperatively and postoperatively. The preoperative extension lag ranged from 20 to 60 degrees (mean: 43.3 degrees). The improvement in extension lag ranged from 15 to 60 degrees (mean: 40.5 degrees). Minimal complications were encountered. The technique described is useful in the management of Stern grade I and II digital contracture.
Department of Surgery, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt. ahmhash@yahoo.com
Ahmed M
AM
Hashem
D000293:Adolescent; D002056:Burns / Q000150:complications; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D003286:Contracture / Q000209:etiology / Q000601:surgery*; D005383:Finger Injuries / Q000601:surgery; D005385:Fingers / Q000601:surgery*; D006801:Humans; D013524:Surgical Flaps; D013536:Suture Techniques; D055815:Young Adult