Radical release and reconstruction of severe post burn flexion contractures of elbow and knee in young adults: Our experience

Severe burn contractures of the knee and elbow are debilitating deformities. The shortened musculotendinous units and neurovascular structures stand out as bowstrings and damage to these structures is possible when attempted to straighten it forcefully. However, with proper planning and tissue selection and replacement, desirable results can be achieved. This single-stage radical release has been described for non-burn contractures such as cerebral palsy and other spastic disorders, but the literature for post-burn contractures is scant, especially for severe elbow and knee contractures. In this article, we discuss the excellent outcomes offered by radical release and reconstruction of severe burn flexion contractures of the knee and elbow through three representative cases.