Evaluation of Gastrocnemius Muscle Flap in Post-Burn Flexion Knee Contracture.

Abstract

Burn injury and consequent contracture is not a new problem for humans. It is severely disabling for the patients, especially if it involves a large joint like the knee. The objective of the study was to evaluate the usefulness of the gastrocnemius flap and improvement in knee joint function following the use of the flap in post-burn flexion knee contracture. This prospective study was performed from January 2016 to December 2017. Twenty-five patients with flexion knee contracture were treated with incisional or excisional release of contracture and coverage with gastrocnemius muscle flap. The post operative improvement in knee function was evaluated. There was improvement in range of motion of the knee in all the operated patients and the patients were able to maintain unassisted bipedal locomotion. There was no flap loss in any case. In post-burn knee contracture with limited local fascio cutaneous flap options, gastrocnemius flap gives very good functional and aesthetic outcome with no major complication.