Volkmann's contracture
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Volkmann's contrature, also known as Volkmann's ischaemic contracture, is a permanent flexion contracture of the hand at the wrist, resulting in a claw-like deformity of the hand and fingers. It is named after Dr. Richard von Volkmann (1830 - 1889), the 19th century German doctor who first described it, in a paper on "non-Infective Ischemic conditions of various fascial compartments in the extremities".
Volkmann's contracture results from ischaemia of the muscles of the forearm. It is caused by pressure, possibly from improper use of a tourniquet, improper use of a plaster cast or from compartment syndrome. Surgery to release the fixed tissues may help with the deformity and function of the hand.