Protocol of surgical indications for scar contracture release before childbirth: Women with severe abdominal scars after burn injuries

Abstract

It is difficult to determine if women with severe abdominal burn scar contractures can have uneventful pregnancies and births. There are few reports involving the relationship between severe abdominal scar contractures and pregnancy/childbirth. Furthermore, all of these reports are based on retrospective studies. The present study focused on women with severe abdominal burn scar contractures with desired fertility. This study investigated whether or not normal childbirth is possible, the necessity of scar contracture release, and the delivery method. In addition, a protocol developed by this hospital was prospectively evaluated. Surgery was indicated in women with scars covering ≥75% of the total abdominal area. The scarred area in the upper abdomen, superior to the navel, was considered particularly important. The protocol of this study serves merely as a reference, and future studies are needed with an increased number of cases.

Key Words:

• Burn
• severe abdominal scar contracture
• childbirth
• surgical indications

Declaration of interest

The authors report no conflicts of interest. The authors alone are responsible for the content and writing of the paper.