ENHANCEMENT OF SURGICAL OUTCOMES IN THE MANAGEMENT OF FOOT

Scarring and contractures of the foot and ankle joints after deep partial and full-thickness burns impair foot motion and lower extremity function, often requiring surgical reconstruction. Long-term outcomes show that close observation of burn patients is crucial to detect developing scars that may benefit from early intervention or to monitor the slow growth of the injured extremity, which may cause secondary changes in bones and joints. Our experience suggests that surgical intervention should be considered before severe scars develop to prevent secondary changes. In severe contracture cases, early surgical intervention is recommended. The success of treating burn-induced foot and ankle deformities depends on the localization of scar contractures, depth of injury, availability of uninjured skin for reconstruction, and the presence of osseous injury or changes due to chronic scar contracture. This monograph provides insights into optimizing surgical outcomes for burn-induced foot deformities and is aimed at medical students, surgical specialists, clinical residents, and practicing surgeons.