| Popis: |
When their treatment is not optimal, deep cervical burns often develop retractions, ranging between simple vertical retractions to major global ones. They generate functional, aesthetic and psychological sequelae. Surgical treatment, adapted to both the patient and the type of retraction, has several goals including restoring the neck-chin angle, restoring a correct aesthetic aspect, and allowing social rehabilitation. In our unit, we managed 47 patients (mean age 22) with neck contractures over 8 years, from 2012-2020. Scald is more frequent in children while flame burns prevail in adults. Most (58%) patients healed spontaneously. Moderate and severe contractures (Achauer’s classification) accounted for 30.6 and 38.8% respectively. In most (94%) patients, the contracture leads to a distortion of the neck-chin angle and limits the extension of the neck. Surgery techniques were skin grafts (67.3%), local plasties (24.5%) and flaps (8.2%). During the follow-up, results were considered as good in 83%, acceptable in 8.5%, while 8.5% needed another surgery. Plasties (Z, IC, VY…) and local flaps (with or without skin expansions) are indicated in minor contractures. Authors still debate on the best technique (graft or flap) for severe and major ones. Post-operative rehabilitation is a cornerstone for good results. |
