Release within scar for treatment of scar contracture of the neck

Objective To investigate the feasibility of the treatment of scar contracture of the neck by release within scar using a modified scalpel.Methods Between March 2007 and November 2008,6 patients with type Ⅱ scar contracture of the neck underwent the procedure of release within scar using a tailor-made scalpel.Postoperatively,an elastic cuff was used to cover the neck to matain a persistent pressure on the surface of the scar for more than six monthes to prevent scar hyperplasia and secondary contracture.Results Postopratively,the movement of the neck was improved significantly in 4 cases and moderately in the other 2 patients.Within 8-month(3 to 20 months) follow-up,there was no contracture recurred.All patients kept a natural cervical curve and a clear mandible -cervical angle.Conclusions Release within scar could improve the movement of the scar contracted neck.If patients selected appropriately,a good result and higher satisfactory rate could be achieved.