Y-V advancement with Z-plasty: an effective combined model for the release of post-burn flexion contractures of the fingers

Volar contractures of the fingers are the commonest sequel to burns of the hands. These have been treated by using various basic techniques of Plastic Surgery. Recently, a combination of these techniques has been used for improving the results more. In the study, two well-known techniques, Y-V advancement and Z-plasty, were combined to improve release of linear flexion contractures of the fingers, including thumbs. Its mathematical representation is presented. Ninety-eight PIP joints (IP for thumb) of 37 patients were treated with this technique and their results were followed-up for about 8 months. The gains were greater using the combined technique than for the usage of either alone. It was concluded that this model could serve as one of the effective combinations of the basic techniques in the treatment of volar finger contractures.