Slow, gradual external fixation distraction for treatment of postburn knee flexion contracture.

Abstract

Although surgical release and reconstruction have been used extensively to treat severe postburn knee flexion contractures, the degree of correction is sometimes unsatisfactory, and the procedure is not exempt from significant complications. Based on the principle of slow, gradual external fixation distraction, we have designed a triangular articulated frame to be mounted with the ASIF-BM fixator to deal with joint flexion contractures. One successfully treated patient is reported. This is a percutaneous surgery, with very mild aggression to the patient and very low iatrogenic risks. The technique is easy, the degree of correction may be almost complete, and the hospital stay is very short because it is an ambulatory surgery.