Post burns severe recurrent flexion contracture of knee joint is an extremely difficult reconstructive problem. We present our approach to this problem which includes surgical release of contracting scar limited by the length of neurovascular bundle, free latissimus dorsi flap transfer and application of Ilizarov's apparatus. The knee joint is straightened gradually over the following weeks. In the years 2002 - 2003, 5 knee joints of 4 patients were treated using this approach. The surgery included release of flexion contracture, followed by free latissimus dorsi muscle flap transfer and application of Ilizarov's apparatus. Over following 4-9 weeks gradual straightening of the joints was performed with the Ilizarov's apparatus until full extension of the joints was achieved. There were no flap failures and no recurrent contractures over a minimal period of 2 years follow-up.
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