A PROSPECTIVE STUDY ON AXILLARY CONTRACTURE FOLLOWING BURNS AT PATNA MEDICAL COLLEGE AND HOSPITAL, BIHAR, INDIA.

Sanjay Kumar  Gupta; Venkata Ravi  Kishore; Raghavendra  Singh; Shinde Sagar  Sambhaji

doi:10.51168/sjhrafrica.v5i3.1005

Authors

Sanjay Kumar Gupta Associate Professor & HoD, Department of Plastic Surgery, Patna Medical College, Patna, Bihar, India.
Venkata Ravi Kishore 2nd Year M.Ch Resident, Department of Plastic Surgery, Patna Medical College and Hospital, Patna, Bihar, India.
Raghavendra Singh 2nd Year M.Ch Resident, Department of Plastic Surgery, Patna Medical College and Hospital, Patna, Bihar, India.
Shinde Sagar Sambhaji 2nd Year M.Ch Resident, Department of Plastic Surgery, Patna Medical College and Hospital, Patna, Bihar, India

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.51168/sjhrafrica.v5i3.1005

Keywords:

Post-Burn, Axilla, Burn Injuries, Tissue Damage, Surgical Interventions, Preoperative Abduction, Split-Thickness, Skin Grafting, Multiple Z-Plasties

Abstract

Background and Aim:

Post-burn contracture (PBC) of the axilla, stemming from burn injuries affecting the armpit region, poses a significant challenge in terms of both function and aesthetics. This study delves into the etiology, pathophysiology, clinical manifestations, and management strategies for this debilitating condition, aiming to comprehensively address the challenges faced by patients and healthcare professionals.

Methodology:

A prospective study was conducted at the Department of Plastic Surgery at Patna Medical College and Hospital in Patna, Bihar, India involving 40 patients experiencing PBC of the axilla. Inclusion criteria comprised patients who expressed a willingness to undergo surgical management, while exclusion criteria ruled out individuals with axillary contractures occurring within 12 months of their burns.

Results:

The study cohort, ranging from 8 to 47 years, revealed a predominance of flame burns (65%), with the right axilla being more commonly affected (45%). Clinical manifestations included a restricted range of motion and deformities, emphasizing the multifaceted impact of contractures. Surgical interventions varied, with 50% undergoing contracture release and split-thickness skin grafting. The preoperative range of shoulder abduction varied between 30° and 100°, with an average of 96°.

Conclusion:

Reconstructive surgery faces an intricate challenge when dealing with PBC of the axilla, requiring tailored approaches for each case. As research progresses, individualized patient care and targeted preventive measures will play pivotal roles in enhancing outcomes and mitigating the impact of this debilitating condition arising from burn injuries.

Recommendation:

To properly treat axillary burn contracture, multicenter studies should be carried out for improved generalizability; sample sizes should be increased for increased statistical power; prospective data collection should be used to reduce recall bias; and long-term follow-ups should be carried out to thoroughly evaluate the sustainability and possible complications of surgical interventions.