What are burn contractures?

Burn contractures are mature, thick scars formed after sustaining a second or third-degree burn. When left untreated, the tissue tightens and contracts, limiting mobility in the affected limb.

What issues do children with burn contractures face?

LIMITED MOBILITY

Depending on where the scar tissue is located, children may have difficulty dressing, eating, walking, or playing.

STIGMA

Children can experience discrimination because of their visible scarring, leading to poor self-confidence.

ISOLATION

When children are limited physically and excluded from community life, they lack opportunities for a hopeful, successful future.

How does surgery change a
child’s life?

Mobility can be restored as tight, painful scarring is released.
Children can walk, play, regain independence, confidence–and hope!
Completing school becomes possible, leading to stability and new opportunities.

Miracles happen every day at CURE Children’s Hospital of Malawi

HOW KELVIN OVERCAME BURN CONTRACTURES

Kelvin’s family sought healing from local witch doctors for his badly burned arm, which had become attached to his torso, preventing him from moving it. They were unsuccessful and growing hopeless until one of CURE Malawi’s doctors spotted Kelvin and offered to help. After successful surgery, Kelvin has full use of his arm and restored hope.