faculty

Publications

Volkmann’s ischemic contracture with impaired vascularity managed by minimally invasive soft tissue release and capsulotomy: A rehabilitation perspective

Groups and Associations Jaya Das; Badarinath Athani; Anindya Debnath*
Journal of Clinical Images and Medical Case Reports 2023

Volkmann’s ischemic leg contracture is severe and debilitating, arising from prolonged ischemia of the lower limb musculature. This condition, also known as Volkmann’s syndrome or Volkmann’s ischemic contracture, occurs because of reduced blood supply to the muscles and nerves, leading to irreversible tissue damage and subsequent contracture formation. This article provides a comprehensive overview of one such chronic case associated with this distressing medical condition resulting in significant functional impairment and its successful operative rehabilitation approach. The pathogenesis of Volkmann’s ischemic contracture (VIC) involves a cascade of events initiated by prolonged arterial occlusion, leading to cellular hypoxia, metabolic derangements, and the release of toxic metabolites, culminating in irreversible tissue damage and fibrosis. VIC of leg, if not treated early, can lead to deformity of foot and ankle complex. Determination of the exact deformities of foot and ankle is crucial in deciding the surgical correction needed. In our case, he presented with left equino-varus deformities and underwent soft tissue procedure followed by physical therapy, early mobilization with appropriate orthotic and footwear. The rehabilitation approach of chronic VIC of leg is a multifaceted process that involves careful assessment, monitoring, rehabilitation, and long-term follow-up. In this case, surgery and post-operative rehabilitation was uneventful and he continues to sustain the functional improvement on follow up.