OBJECTIVETo investigate the effect of delayed skin grafting combined traction in severe joint cicatricial contracture.

METHODSAt the first stage, the joint cicatricial contracture was released completely with protection of vessels, nerves and tendons. The wound was covered with allogenetic skin or biomaterials. After skin traction for 7-14 days, the joint could reach the extension position. Then the skin graft was performed on the wound. 25 cases were treated from Mar. 2000 to May. 2013.

RESULTSPrimary healing was achieved at the second stage in all the cases. The skin graft had a satisfactory color and elasticity. Joint function was normal. All the patients were followed up for 3 months to 11 years with no hypertrophic scar and contraction relapse, except for one case who didn' t have enough active exercise on shoulder joint.

CONCLUSIONDelayed skin grafting combined traction can effectively increase the skin graft survival rate and improve the joint function recovery.

Biocompatible Materials ; therapeutic use ; Cicatrix, Hypertrophic ; Combined Modality Therapy ; methods ; Contracture ; surgery ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Recovery of Function ; Recurrence ; Skin Transplantation ; methods ; Tendons ; Traction ; methods ; Wound Healing