POST-BURN NECK CONTRACTURES: SURGICAL TREATMENT AND LONG-TERM OUTCOMES

ABSTRACT OBJECTIVES The study aimed to assess the range of motion and graft recipient site complications in post-operative burns patients. METHODOLOGY This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted at the Burns and Plastic Surgery Centre in Peshawar over a period from January 2019 to December 2024. A total of 40 patients diagnosed with post-burn mento-sternal neck contractures were included in the study. Participants of all age groups, both male and female, were considered, while patients with infected contractures, sinus, or fistula burns, or those who had undergone previous surgeries elsewhere were excluded. Range of motion of neck and graft recipient site complications were recorded from the patient records. Data were analysed using SPSS version 25. RESULTS The study included 40 patients, with 30 (75%) males and 10 (25%) females. The mean age of the patients was 22.20 ± 10.12 years, with an age range of 10 to 45 years. Most burns were flame-related (80%), while scalds caused 20%. For those treated after 12 months, 24 (60%) underwent skin grafting, while 10 (25%) exhibited poor skin texture. Good range of motion was found in 24 (60%) patients while 10 (25%) patients had fair ROM at 12 months follow-up. CONCLUSION Post-burn neck contractures are a common and challenging complication of burns, typically managed with surgical interventions such as skin grafts, local flaps, and Z-plasty. The overall outcome of these procedures is greatly influenced by early and consistent physiotherapy. A well-structured follow-up program for up to 18 months is essential for ensuring optimal functional recovery and improving long-term outcomes.