Keystone Flap for Postburn Finger Flexion Contracture Release.

Abstract

Flexion contracture of finger is a major cause of disability in postburn patients. Various methods have been described to cover the resultant defect after surgical release of finger flexion contracture. Local flaps are used when there is sufficient tissue available on lateral sides of the finger to recruit into the defect. Keystone flap can be designed on volar aspect of finger to cover the post contracture release defect. Use of local flap reduces need of skin graft and donor site morbidity. Here we discuss a case of postburn finger flexion contracture release using type-3 keystone flap. Postoperative results are satisfactory. Various pros and cons of the technique are discussed. Keystone flap is a new addition to the armamentarium of plastic surgeons for release of postburn flexion contracture of fingers.