Experimental Study Of Relation Between Period And Effect Of Neurolysis For Volkmann Contracture Of The Forearm

Objective To compare effect of fasciotomy for Volkmann contracture of the forearm immediately and neurolysis for Volkmann contracture of the forearm at 1 week, 4 weeks and 12 weeks in the models.Methods In 30 New Zealand rabbits, we compress the hindlimbs of the rabbits with the pressure of 12.5kPa for 5.0 hours by via cuff inflation. The 30 rabbits were randomly divided into 5 groups: one group (Group B) received fasciotomy for compartment syndrome immediately; three groups (Group C, Group D, Group E) received neurolysis for Volkmann contracture at 1 week, 4 weeks, 12 weeks and one group (Group A) didn't receive any treatment served as a control. Observations were made 12 weeks after fasciotomy and neurolysis. The 5 groups were assessed by electropsysiological studies, biochemical studies and pathological changes of Volkmann contracture.Results The effect of treatments for Group B, C, D, E was remarkably superior to Group A (P<0.01). B was superior to C, D, E (P<0.01) and C, D were superior to E (P<0.01). Gross and pathological changes can be obviously observed between the 5 groups and the normal tissue.Conclusion Volkmann contracture of the forearm is a severe disease. During the period of compartment syndrome, fasciotomy in time is helpful to the recovery of the function of the body. Neurolysis is effective in 1—12 weeks after Volkmann contracture of the forearm and 1—4 weeks is much better.