Multiple-digit resurfacing using a thin latissimus dorsi perforator flap

Linked Flaps of the Thoracodorsal Vascular Tree for Correcting Extensive Post-Burn Deformities and Achieving Optimal Reconstruction Outcomes

BACKGROUND

Autologous skin grafting has been the popular method for reconstructing post-burn defects. However, this technique has limitations such as high contracture rates and inadequate volume coverage. This report aims to propose the principles and advantages of utilizing microsurgically linked perforator flaps for the reconstruction of extensive burn defects and associated post-burn scar contracture in the lower and upper extremities and trunk.

METHOD

Patients who underwent free tissue transfer for primary and secondary burn wound reconstruction at a single institution between 2016 and 2023 were included in the study. Patients received thoracodorsal vascular tree-linked flaps for the correction of post-burn deformities. Postoperative results were evaluated, including flap survival, complications, and the DASH self-report questionnaire for upper extremity reconstruction.

RESULT

Among the 20 patients, 12 required primary reconstruction, while 8 underwent secondary reconstruction using anastomotic chimeric free tissue transfer. The majority of burn injuries resulted from thermal contact (n = 8), followed by flames (n = 5), scalds (n = 4), electrical contact (n = 2), and friction (n = 1). The most frequently utilized combinations were the thoracodorsal artery perforator (TDAp) and anterolateral thigh (ALT) flap (11 cases). Additionally, four cases involved the pedicled TDAp flap in conjunction with the deep inferior epigastric artery perforator (DIEP) flap. The average DASH score for upper extremity burn patients was 10.58.

CONCLUSIONS

Three-dimensional tissue coverage achieved through the linkage of two or even three independent free flaps is increasingly utilized in post-burn reconstruction. This approach offers multiple advantages and represents a viable option for burn reconstruction.

Multiple digit resurfacing with a lateral thoracic free flap: Two-stage mitten hand and division procedures

PURPOSE

The conventional abdominal and groin flaps for resurfacing the defect have several disadvantages, including the risk of flap failure due to accidental traction or detachment, immobilization of the arm before division, and aesthetic dissatisfaction because of the flap bulkiness. The aim of this study was to share our experiences with the free lateral thoracic flap and elucidate the optimal timing of division in complex hand reconstruction, which yielded favorable outcomes in terms of both functionality and aesthetics.

METHODS

This article is a retrospective review of multiple digit resurfacing using free tissue transfer from 2012 to 2022. Patients who underwent two-stage operation including mitten hand creation using superthin thoracodorsal artery perforator (TDAp) free flap and secondary division were included. A flap was elevated over the superficial fascia layer the midportion between the anterior border of the latissimus dorsi and pectoralis major muscles and once the pedicle was found, an outline that matched the defect was created. A process named "pushing with pressure and cutting" was carried out before pedicle ligation until all the superficial fat tissue had been removed except for around the perforator. Two cases (18%) involved defects of the entire fingers reconstructed by TDAp flap with anterolateral thigh flap. Six cases (55%) had a super-thin TDAp flap only. In two cases (18%), non-vascularized iliac bone grafting was required for finger lengthening. One case (9%) was resurfaced with a TDAp chimeric flap including a skin paddle with the serratus anterior muscle. The primary outcome was defined as the survival or failure of the flap, while the secondary outcomes associated complications such as infection and partial flap necrosis. A statistical analysis was not performed due to the size of the case series.

RESULTS

All 13 flaps survived completely without any complications. Flap dimension ranged from 12 cm × 7 cm to 30 cm × 15 cm. Mitten hand duration prior to division was 41.9 days on average which was essential for the optimal result. During the division procedures, there were nine cases of debulking (82%), six cases of split-thickness skin graft (STSG) (55%), and three cases of Z-plasty performed on the first web space (27%). The mean follow-up period was 20.2 months. Mean Disability of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) Questionnaire score was 10.76.

CONCLUSIONS

We resurfaced severe soft tissue defects of multiple fingers with thin to super-thin free flaps, mainly TDAp flaps. Surgeons can restore original hand shape using a two-stage reconstructive strategy of mitten hand creation and proper division timing to create a 3-dimensional hand structure, even in severely injured hands with multiple soft tissue defects of the digits.

Comparison of Thigh-Based versus Groin-Based versus Lateral-Thoracic-Based Flaps for Hand Resurfacing: A Review Article

BACKGROUND

Thigh-based, groin-based and lateral-thoracic-based flaps are available for microsurgical hand resurfacing – which is the best?

METHODS

BestBETS methodology was used to systematically evaluate the advantages and disadvantages. PubMed, EMBASE and Cochrane databases were searched up until Sep 2020, using the search strategy: hand re-surfacing, free-flap, groin-flap, thigh-flap, lateral thoracic-flap, advantages, and disadvantages.

RESULTS

Overall, 31 papers were identified which were used to synthesize the discussion and conclusions.

CONCLUSION

Thigh-based anterolateral thigh (ALT) flaps offer the greatest versatility.

Evaluation of Primary and Secondary Free Flap Desyndactylization Techniques in Hand and Digit Reconstruction: A Systematic Review

Objective Injuries of the hand often require free flap reconstruction. To minimize flap loss, evidence exists to surgically syndactylize digits when repairing multiple injuries, with delayed flap division, or desyndactylization. However, evidence suggests that division of the flap at the time of inset can be accomplished with minimal negative effect. The purpose of this study was to evaluate outcomes, following hand reconstruction with free flaps utilizing either acute or staged desyndactylization techniques.

Methods A systematic review utilizing the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines was performed. Articles that described the use of a free flap for surgically syndactylized digits or multilobed flaps for coverage of multiple digits were included.

Results One hundred sixty-one articles were reviewed with 34 fulfilling inclusion criteria. One hundred seventeen patients underwent 145 free flap reconstructions. Traumatic avulsions (49%) were the most common injuries, followed by burns (11%). Twenty-one (62%) papers described surgical syndactylization of digits, which were later desyndactylized and five (15%) papers included reconstruction of more than one digit with multilobed free flaps. Eight papers (24%) described both techniques. Overall, 100% of included flaps survived. Total complication rate was 6%, with six complications (67%) occurring in flaps with primary syndactylization.

Conclusion Hand defects often require free flaps for reconstruction. Although free flaps for the reconstruction of digital defects is technically demanding, they result in better outcomes. With available evidence indicating complications rates less than those of staged desyndactylization, multidigit reconstruction with multilobed free flaps may be a more desirable technique.

Soft Tissue Reconstruction of Complete Circumferential Defects of the Upper Extremity

BACKGROUND

Upper extremity soft tissue defects with complete circumferential involvement are not common. Coupled with the unique anatomy of the upper extremity, the underlying etiology of such circumferential soft tissue defects represent additional reconstructive challenges that require treatment to be tailored to both the patient and the wound. The aim of this study is to review the various options for soft tissue reconstruction of complete circumferential defects in the upper extremity.

METHODS

A literature review of PubMed and MEDLINE up to December 2016 was performed. The current study focuses on forearm and arm defects from the level at or proximal to the wrist and were assessed based on Tajima's classification (J Trauma 1974). Data reviewed for analysis included patient demographics, causality, defect size, reconstructive technique(s) employed, and postoperative follow-up and functional outcomes (when available).

RESULTS

In accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines, 14 unique articles were identified for a total of 50 patients (mean=28.1 years). Underlying etiologies varied from extensive thermal or electrical burns to high impact trauma leading to degloving or avulsion, crush injuries, or even occur iatrogenically after tumor extirpation or extensive debridement. Treatment options ranged from the application of negative pressure wound dressings to the opposite end of the spectrum in hand transplantation.

CONCLUSIONS

With the evolution of reconstructive techniques over time, the extent of functional and aesthetic rehabilitation of these complex upper extremity injuries has also improved. The proposed management algorithm comprehensively addresses the inherent challenges associated with these complex cases.

Toe resurfacing with a thin thoracodorsal artery perforator flap

BACKGROUND

In toe reconstruction, amputation procedures are much more common than salvage procedures. However, toe resurfacing, rather than amputation, provides superior functional and aesthetic results. In this study, we report the clinical outcomes of toe resurfacing using a thin thoracodorsal artery perforator flap.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Between January 2004 and June 2013, a total of 15 patients underwent toe resurfacing using thoracodorsal artery perforator flaps. Thin flaps were harvested by discarding the deep adipose layer. Twelve cases involved a great toe defect, three, a second toe defect, three, a third toe defect, and one, a fourth toe defect. Patient ages ranged from 19 to 82 years (mean, 42.9 years). The mechanism of injury varied, including crushing injury, degloving injury, and diabetic foot infection.

RESULTS

The size of thoracodorsal artery perforator flap ranged from 4 × 3 to 20 × 8 cm² and the thickness of the flap ranged from 4 to 9 mm (mean, 6.5 mm). All flap survived completely without complications. The mean follow-up period was 18.8 months (range, 12-60 months). Only one patient with rheumatoid arthritis had mild gait disturbance. All patients were satisfied with the aesthetic and functional results.

CONCLUSION

Toe resurfacing with thin thoracodorsal artery perforator flaps appears to be a safer and more reliable option than amputation for preserving their function. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microsurgery 37:312-318, 2017.

The use of pedicled abdominal flaps for coverage of acute bilateral circumferential degloving injuries of the hand

Reconstruction of bilateral soft tissue defects in hand and distal third of the forearm, is a challenge for any reconstructive surgeon. When there is circumferential skin loss affecting the whole hand and fingers as in major degloving injuries, the extent of tissue required for reconstruction narrows down the choice of flaps. When the injury affects both hands the magnitude of the problem becomes compounded. There is no report in the literature of free skin flaps to cover circumferential degloving injuries in both hands. We are presenting the technical considerations and outcome of pedicled abdominal flaps used for immediate coverage of circumferential degloving injuries of both hands.