[Burn-induced contraction cicatrix in children. Review of 79 cases].

Post-burn flexion contractures of the hands are evaluated in this retrospective study concerning eighty-six hands of seventy-nine children in the pediatric surgery unit of the University hospital of Dakar from 1971 to 1995. A peak frequency was found among 2-months-old males. Fire (flames or embers) is the most frequent etiology (49.5%). The initial treatment of these burns is more often inadequate because it is performed in dispensaries (small clinics) or at home and then causes severe sequelae. Among the methods of treatment, excision with graft gives the best results in short flexion contractures. Isolated Z plasty can be used successfully. Our follow-up is short (6 months) but the results are relatively good. Among the factors influencing the results, the seriousness of the lesions, the type of surgical treatment, immobilization and physiotherapy are the most significant.