Dermatogenic contracture - what is it?
Dermatogenic contracture — occurs after skin burns (thermal or chemical). It is especially often observed in children in the form of tightening rough keloid scars of the skin. Dermatogenic contracture can also be formed as a result of skin defects after mechanical trauma with the subsequent formation of ulcers on it.
What has to be done?
When a contracture has developed, conservative methods of treatment such as ointments, injections, laser grinding will not be suitable. The recommended method of treatment is scar plastic surgery. Individually, the scar is excised or dissected, and local tissue plastic surgery or free autodermoplasty (split skin graft) is performed using a dermatome. The rehabilitation period is 2-3 weeks.
Is relapse possible?
Contractures can be caused by hypertrophic or keloid scars. If we are talking about hypertrophic, then with good tactics and the absence of complications, there should be no relapse. However, if a keloid was present, there is a high probability of recurrence. Prevention after surgery consists in applying silicone gels and silicone plates.
Author: Doctor-surgeon Galina Volodymyrivna Sayan
If you experience symptoms of an illness, please consult a doctor.