Central axis flap methods

Abstract

Extensively burned patients often lack ample healthy skin for autotransplantation. Scar contractures are then frequent. Here, we reconstructed contractures using flaps of remaining healthy skin around the recipient sites. In this report, we present four original scar contracture repair methods using subcutaneous pedicled flaps: (1) Propeller flap, (2) multilobed propeller flap, (3) scar-band rotation flap and (4) pin-wheel flap. The subcutaneous pedicle under the center of these various types of flaps allows these methods to be characterized as "central axis flap methods." We have employed these flaps to treat mild scar contractures in the axilla and cubital fossa. These methods are easily manipulated to restore function and improve aesthetics of scar contractures.