Burn Contracture Release Surgery: What to Expect & Outcomes
A comprehensive guide to contracture release surgery, which frees tight scar tissue to restore movement after a healed burn.
Treatment begins with
Assessment
Release Surgery
Coverage
Rehabilitation
This surgery is considered for scar tightness that is limiting joint movement or daily function after a healed burn.
You may need this if...
These signs may indicate that this treatment is the recommended course of care:
- Restricted joint movement from tight burn scarring
- Scar bands affecting daily activities
- Contracture not improving with physiotherapy alone
- Progressive worsening of scar tightness
A plastic surgeon's evaluation confirms whether this treatment is the right option for you.
What is Contracture Release Surgery?
This surgery divides tight scar bands restricting joint movement, using skin grafts or flaps to cover the resulting defect and maintain the corrected position.
Most patients regain significant, useful movement at the treated joint.
When This Treatment is Considered
This surgery is considered for scar tightness that is limiting joint movement or daily function after a healed burn.
- Restricted joint movement from tight burn scarring
- Scar bands affecting daily activities
- Contracture not improving with physiotherapy alone
- Progressive worsening of scar tightness
The Care Pathway
1. Assessment
Movement and scar extent are assessed to plan the surgical approach.
2. Release Surgery
The tight scar band is surgically divided to free the joint.
3. Coverage
A skin graft or flap covers the resulting defect.
4. Rehabilitation
Structured physiotherapy and splinting maintain the corrected position as healing progresses.
“Your care team supports you through every stage, from evaluation to full recovery.”
Expected Benefits and Possible Considerations
Most patients see meaningful improvement in joint movement and daily function. Your care team will discuss individual risks before surgery.
Every treatment has individual considerations. Your care team will discuss what to expect based on your specific situation.
What to Expect During Recovery
Initial healing takes a few weeks, with physiotherapy continuing for months to maintain and improve movement.
Your care plan includes splinting, a structured physiotherapy program, and regular follow-up to track movement gains.
Following your care team's guidance closely during recovery plays an important role in achieving the best possible outcome.
Questions to Ask Your Care Team
- 1.How much movement can I expect to regain?
- 2.Will I need physiotherapy after surgery?
- 3.What type of skin coverage will be used?
- 4.Could the contracture come back?
Not Sure What You Need?
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