Dermotraction as a Simple and Effective Technique for Fasciotomy Wound Closure.

Abstract

Background| Fasciotomy is the best treatment option of acute compartment syndrome, but it results into large wounds which are difficult to manage. Different techniques have been utilized to manage the fasciotomy wounds which have their respective merits and demerits. This study was conducted to evaluate yet another novel technique which requires skin stapler and Prolene #1 sutures. Methods| This descriptive cases series was done using non-probability convenient sampling technique from January 2015 and June 2017 at Department of Orthopedics Surgery, King Edward Medical University / Mayo Hospital, Lahore. We included 24 fasciotomy wounds. They were managed with Dermotraction technique. We excluded patients with vascular injury. All wounds were successfully closed within an average time of seven days. The procedure was found to be cost effective, easy to execute and with minimal complications. Results| Amongst the total 13 patients, all were males of age ranging from 14 to 45year with mean age of 28.46±9.97. Majority, 10 patients (77 %) had acute compartment syndrome of leg and each patient managed with two fasciotomy wounds (N= 20). All fasciotomy wounds were closed with serial traction technique and the average time of closure was 07 days ranging from 3 days to 17 days 8.61±2.63. Conclusion| We concluded from the study that dermotraction technique has good outcome in fasciotomy wound closer and healing and it is a cost effective.