Alternative splinting methods for the prevention and correction of burn scar torticollis.

Abstract

Significant neck burns may lead to deforming lateral flexion and rotation contractures. A two-device splinting regimen has been designed to prevent such contractures. In the acute phase, the Dynamic Antitorticollis Strap is applied while the patient is in bed to gently rotate the head and neck toward the neutral position. This dynamic strap includes a Velfoam headband attached to Thera-Band secured to the patient's bed. The antitorticollis neck splint is used in the rehabilitation phase and can be serially adjusted to correct lateral flexion contractures of the neck. Thermoplastic material is cut from a modified neck splint pattern and draped over the temporaloccipital region and anterior/posterior shoulder ipsilateral to the contracture and the anterior and contralateral aspect of the neck. The combined use of these devices during the scar maturation phase provides therapists with alternatives in preventing burn scar torticollis.