Burn scar contracture release: a simplified technique utilizing contact media

A technique to overcome the problems of inlay grafting for burn scar contracture release is described. A greater release can be achieved by moving the point of release away from the flexure crease, with the added advantage of grafting on to a ‘flat non-mobile’ surface. A simplified method of graft fixation and compression is described, along with the use of contact media in the postoperative management to prevent graft shrinkage and the recurrence of contracture. During a 6-year period, burn scar contracture release with inlay grafting was performed on 24 patients (10 limbs with 17 split-skin grafts and 14 fingers with 21 full-thickness grafts) with no recurrence.