Everything you need to know about
Contracture Treatment
Comprehensive Care by Dr. Karoon Agrawal
Senior Plastic Surgeon at National Heart Institute, New Delhi, India
Burn injuries can leave lasting physical and emotional scars. One common complication is contracture formation, where scar tissue tightens, limiting movement. Dr. Karoon Agrawal, a seasoned plastic and reconstructive surgeon with over 40 years of experience, offers specialized contracture treatment to help patients regain mobility and improve their quality of life.
Understanding Contractures (कॉन्ट्रेक्चर क्या हैं?)
Contractures develop as burn wounds heal, leaving behind thick, restrictive scars. These can affect any body part, including the face, neck, arms, and legs. Besides physical limitations, contractures can also lead to pain, discomfort, and emotional distress.
Tailored Treatment Approach
Dr. Agrawal’s approach to contracture treatment is patient-centered, focusing on restoring function and minimizing scarring. Each patient’s needs are unique, and a personalized treatment plan is developed after a thorough evaluation.
Contracture Treatment Options
(कॉन्ट्रेक्चर का ईलाज क्या हैं?)
- Surgical Techniques: Depending on the severity and location of the contracture, surgical procedures like Z-plasty, skin grafting, and flap surgery may be necessary to release scar tension and improve range of motion.
- Non-Surgical Interventions: In milder cases, physical therapy, splinting, or laser therapy can help soften scar tissue and enhance mobility without surgery.
- Post-Surgical Rehabilitation: A comprehensive rehabilitation plan, including physical therapy and scar management, is crucial for optimal recovery and preventing recurrence of contractures.
Why Choose Dr. Karoon Agrawal?
- Decades of Experience: With over 40 years of expertise, Dr. Agrawal has successfully treated numerous burn-related contractures.
- Advanced Techniques: He stays updated with the latest surgical advancements to provide state-of-the-art care.
- Personalized Care: From initial consultation to post-operative follow-up, patients receive compassionate and individualized attention.
The Importance of Early Intervention
Early treatment of contractures is key to achieving the best possible outcomes. Delaying treatment can lead to permanent limitations and more complex surgical procedures.
What to expect after surgery?
(सर्जरी के बाद क्या उम्मीद करें?)
After contracture release surgery, it’s important to follow your doctor’s post-operative care instructions carefully. Here’s a general overview of what you can expect:
- Pain Management: You may experience some pain and discomfort, which can be managed with prescribed pain medication.
- Swelling and Bruising: Swelling and bruising are common after surgery and should subside over time.
- Dressing Changes: You may need to change your dressings regularly to keep the wound clean and dry.
- Physical Therapy: Physical therapy will be essential to regain range of motion, strength, and function in the affected area.
- Scar Management: Your doctor may recommend scar management techniques, such as silicone gel sheets or laser therapy, to minimize scarring.
Potential Risks and Complications
While contracture release surgery is generally safe and effective, potential risks and complications include:
- Infection: Proper wound care and antibiotic medication can help prevent infection.
- Bleeding: Excessive bleeding can occur, but it is usually controlled during surgery.
- Nerve Damage: In rare cases, nerve damage may occur, leading to numbness or weakness.
- Contracture Recurrence: While unlikely, contractures may recur, especially if post-operative care instructions are not followed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Recovery time varies based on the severity of the contracture and the type of surgery. Generally, it takes 4-6 weeks, with physical therapy aiding in a faster recovery.
While surgery may result in new scars, modern techniques aim to minimize their appearance and prioritize functional improvement. Post-surgical scar management, such as laser therapy and compression garments, can help reduce scar visibility.
Pain is effectively managed during and after the procedure to ensure patient comfort throughout the recovery process.