[Continuous Y-V-plasty].

Abstract

Scar tissue contraction after healing of a burn may be a serious problem. The formation of cord-like scars in the region of a joint may lead to limitation of movement and deformity. Pressure bandages may reduce scarring but can not always prevent it and operation may be necessary. Operation may involve division of the contracted scars and skin grafting or re-arrangement of available skin and changing the line of the scar by means of Z-plasties. However, the blood circulation in the scarred flaps of the Z-plasties may be inadequate and necrosis of the tips of the flaps may occur. This complication can be avoided by the use of Y-V plasties where, in contrast to the Z-plasty the flaps are not separated from the underlying tissue. In the Y-V technique the cord-like scar is released by several transverse Y incisions. The 'tongue' formed by the upper part of each Y is advanced into the stem, thus lengthening the scar. This technique has been so successful that it has completely superseded the Z-plasty in the treatment of contracted burn scars in our practice.