Soft Tissue Coverage of the Hand and Upper Extremity: The Reconstructive Elevator

Clinical Outcomes and Applicability of Serratus Anterior Muscle Flap With Split Thickness Skin Graft in Thin Resurfacing Reconstructive Surgeries: A Retrospective Analysis

ABSTRACT

This retrospective study evaluates the efficacy of the serratus anterior muscle (SAm) free flap combined with a split thickness skin graft (STSG) for thin resurfacing in reconstructive surgery, presenting an alternative to pure skin perforator flaps. It analyzes 14 SAm free flap procedures performed between January 2015 and December 2023. The study cohort comprised 5 women and 9 men, aged 31-80 years, addressing defects caused by infection, malignancy, burn, and trauma, located in various body parts.The study involves harvesting the SAm flap while focusing on anatomical features such as the distinct direction of muscle fibers and the surface location of the vascular pedicle for efficient dissection. It emphasizes the anatomical advantages of the SAm flap, such as robust vascular supply, controlled flap thickness, and preservation of the long thoracic nerve, making it suitable for a range of surgical needs. Complications included STSG loss, partial necrosis, and infection, all managed effectively. Postoperative shoulder function assessment showed no significant impairment.Results demonstrated the successful application of the SAm flap in all cases, with an average flap dimension of 38.21 cm2 and pedicle length of 7.3 cm. The average operation time was 122.1 minutes. The study underscores the SAm flap's adaptability, versatility, and minimal donor site morbidity.It concludes that the SAm flap, in conjunction with STSG, is a viable alternative for thin resurfacing in reconstructive surgery. However, limitations such as the small sample size and procedural variability suggest the need for further research to fully establish the flap's potential in diverse surgical contexts.

Digital skin defect management: Hand and wrist volar flap solutions

BACKGROUND

Selecting the optimal flap for managing digit skin defects is challenging, particularly for inexperienced surgeons, given the numerous reconstructive options and insufficient evidence supporting one flap type's superiority over another. This retrospective study introduces four efficacious hand flaps to address volar skin defects and transverse and oblique cuts, examines the optimal flap advancement distance, and discusses effective management.

METHODS

Patients with digit skin defects who underwent flap surgery between 2009 and 2022 were included. Fifty-four patients treated with oblique triangular, volar VY advancement (unilateral and bilateral pedicled volar VY advancement flaps for fingers and thumbs, respectively), reverse homodigital island, and radial artery superficial palmar branch flaps were included. We evaluated the flap advancement distance, flap length, range of motion, complications, and Semmes-Weinstein monofilament test and Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand questionnaire results.

RESULTS

The median flap advancement distances for triangular oblique (19 patients), unilateral (11 patients), and bilateral pedicled (5 patients) volar VY advancement flaps were 1.3, 1.8, and 2.0 cm, respectively. The flap lengths for the reverse digital island (8 patients) and radial artery superficial palmar branch (11 patients) flaps were 2.4 and 5.0 cm, respectively. Five, three, and one cases of proximal interphalangeal flexion contractures of ≥ -20° were observed in the VY advancement, reverse digital island, and radial artery superficial palmar branch flaps, respectively. One unilateral VY advancement flap case caused severe numbness and neuroma. All complication cases featured >15 and > 20 mm defect lengths on the fingers and thumb, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

To minimize sensory disruption and contractures, we recommend oblique triangular and unilateral pedicle volar VY advancement flaps for finger skin defects up to 12 mm and defects sized 12-15 mm, respectively. Advancement flaps are unsuitable for >15 and > 20-25 mm defects on the fingers and thumb, respectively.

Novosorb Biodegradable Temporizing Matrix for Reconstruction of Complex Upper-Extremity Wounds

Purpose

Dermal matrices can be used in management of upper-extremity wounds to create vascularized wound beds in the setting of exposed bone or tendon. Early outcomes of Novosorb biodegradable temporizing matrix (BTM) demonstrated success when used in the treatment of complex wounds. We hypothesize that BTM is effective for reconstruction of upper-extremity wounds.

Methods

A retrospective review was performed for patients who underwent reconstruction of upper-extremity wounds with BTM between January 2017 and May 2022.

Results

In total, 51 patients (39 males and 12 females) were included. Wound etiology included trauma (n = 30), burn (n = 12), infection (n = 8), and vasopressor-related injury (n = 1). The average size of BTM was 162.5 cm2, and the average time from BTM application to wound closure was 90.1 days. Twenty-seven (52.9%) patients required skin grafting, whereas 20 (39.2%) did not and re-epithelialized spontaneously. Those who did not require skin grafting had significantly smaller wound sizes compared to those who required skin grafting (58.5 cm2 vs 248.6 cm2; P = .002). Complications occurred in 14 patients, including infection (n = 5), fluid collection (n = 5), and template dehiscence (n = 4). Wound closure was successful in 92% of patients.

Conclusions

Novosorb BTM is effective for the management of upper-extremity wounds with exposed bone and tendon.

Clinical relevance

In the management of complex upper-extremity wounds with exposed bone and tendon, even when devoid of paratenon or periosteum, Novosorb BTM provides a safe and effective alternative to more complex reconstructive options.

Delayed Abdominal Flap for Upper Extremity Soft Tissue Coverage

Unlike other body parts, the upper extremity has critical structures close to the skin, making soft tissue injuries more complex. These injuries can result from various causes, including trauma and necrotizing soft tissue infections, necessitating reconstruction. Historically, pedicled flaps from the groin and abdomen were commonly used for upper extremity reconstruction, but they had limitations, such as the need for flap division and debulking, patient discomfort, and stiffness. Free flap reconstruction has become the preferred method, but it still faces challenges like patient and facility issues, the absence of recipient vessels after injury, and multi-surface wounds. This case report describes a 67-year-old patient with a severe necrotizing soft tissue infection in the right upper extremity. After multiple debridement procedures, the patient underwent hand amputation and soft tissue coverage using an abdominal wall-based flap. The objectives of achieving stable soft tissue coverage while preserving maximal length of the upper extremity were successfully achieved, and the patient expressed satisfaction with the outcomes. Inadequate management of upper extremity wounds can lead to amputation and psychological distress. The reconstructive ladder is used to approach upper extremity soft tissue defects, with free tissue transfer being the standard for larger defects. However, abdominal flaps still have indications when free tissue transfer is not feasible or contraindicated. It is imperative that plastic surgeons have these techniques in their armamentarium to provide a service to the ever more complex patient with an upper extremity wound.

Free peroneal artery perforator flap for reconstruction of traumatic limb soft tissue defects: A retrospective case series study

BACKGROUND

The free peroneal artery perforator (FPAP) flap is used for soft tissue defects after burns and trauma. However, the use of FPAP flaps to repair limb soft tissue defects for immediate reconstruction was rarely reported previously. Therefore, the purpose of this report is to evaluate free peroneal artery perforator flap to reconstruct traumatic limb soft tissue defects for immediate reconstruction.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A total of 25 cases of limb soft tissue defects undergoing immediate reconstruction of FPAP flap transfer were retrospectively evaluated from January 2019 to June 2019 in our institute. The locations of defects included the palm (10 cases), finger (5 cases), foot (7 cases), ankle (2 cases) and wrist (1 case). The sizes of defect varied from 3 × 2 cm to 15 × 7 cm (54.1 cm2 in average). Flaps were harvested based on the peroneal perforator vessels, initially marked using hand-held Doppler.

RESULTS

Average size of harvested flap was 9.7 × 6.2 cm (ranging from 3.5 × 2 cm to 16 × 8 cm). All perforators were harvested from the peroneal artery and the arterial diameter ranged from 0.8 to 1.7 mm. The average pedicle length was 3.04 cm (range, 1.85-4.75 cm). Five vascular thrombosis were found including three cases of arterial thrombosis and two cases of venous thrombosis which were successfully salvaged by re-operation and vein graft. Satisfying functional outcome and acceptable appearance were achieved at 6 months or longer after surgery (range, 6-15 months, 12 months in average). All flaps survived at the end-point.

CONCLUSIONS

The FPAP flap is a reliable and thin fasciocutaneous flap, which can be used for repairing limb soft tissue defects. The FPAP flap can be used for covering defects with various appearances, locations, and sizes.

Reconstruction With Flow-Through Chimeric Anterolateral Thigh Flap Combining Vascularized Fibular Bone Graft for Extensive Composite Tissue Defect of the Forearm: A Case Report

ABSTRACT

The management of critical limb trauma is challenging because limb salvage is preferable to amputation. For upper limb reconstruction, the surgical restoration of functionality, and appearance, a multidisciplinary approach is needed. We report the case of an extensive composite tissue defect of the forearm caused by a machine-crushing injury that was repaired by a flow-through chimeric anterolateral thigh flap with a vascularized fibular graft. Reconstruction was performed as a single-stage procedure; no complications occurred, and both functional and aesthetic outcomes were satisfactory.

DORSALIS PEDIS NEUROVASCULAR FLAP, OUR EXPERIENCE

Objectives

Analyze the donor site morbidity of the dorsalis pedis neurovascular flap in traumatic injuries with hand tissue loss.

Material and Methods

The study involved dorsalis pedis neurovascular flaps that were used to reconstruct the hands of eight male patients, between 1983 and 2003, aged between 21 and 53 years (mean 34.6, SD ± 10.5 years). The size of the lesions ranged from 35 to 78 cm2 (mean 53, SD ± 14.4 cm2). Surgical procedures were performed two to 21 days after the injuries had occurred. The patients were followed up for an average of 10.3 years (ranging 8-14, SD ± 2.1 years).

Results

Regarding the donor site, in one case there was hematoma formation, which was drained; in another case, the skin graft needed to be reassessed. All patients experienced delayed healing, with complete healing from 2 to 12 months after the surgery (mean 4.3, SD ± 3.2 months).

Conclusion

Despite the advantages of the dorsalis pedis neurovascular flap, we consider that the sequelae in the donor site is cosmetically unacceptable. Nowadays, this procedure is only indicated and justified when associated with the second toe transfer. Level of Evidence IV; Case series .

The modified second toe flap technique based on the dorsal digital artery of the toe in finger pulp reconstruction

BACKGROUND

The second toe flap is a widely used innervated neurovascular flap for repairing finger pulp defects. It mainly carries the proper plantar digital artery and nerve. But the donor site morbidity and arterial injury are common. The report retrospectively evaluated the clinical outcomes of the second toe free medial flap based on dorsal digital artery of the toe to investigate the esthetics and function in the treatment of soft tissue defects of fingertip pulp.

METHODS

From March 2019 to December 2020, 12 patients with finger pulp defects (seven acute crush, three cut, and two burn) undergoing the modified second toe flap were chosen for retrospective review. The average patient age was 38.6 (range: 23-52) years. The mean defect size was 2.1 × 1.6 (range: 1.5 × 1.3-2.6 × 1.9) cm. The defects did not extend beyond the distal interphalangeal joint and the phalanges were not damaged in all cases. The average follow-up was 9.5 (range: 6-16) months. Demographic information, flap data, and perioperative characteristics were collected.

RESULTS

The mean size of the modified flap was 2.3 × 1.8 (range: 1.7 × 1.5-2.7 × 2.0) cm and mean diameter of artery was 0.61 (range: 0.45-0.85) mm. The mean flap harvested time and operation time were 22.6 (range: 16-27) minutes and 133.7 (range: 101-164) minutes. A flap was ischemic after first day postoperatively and later it improved by releasing the sutures. All flaps were survival without necrosis. One patient was not satisfied with the appearance of the finger pulp because of scar hyperplasia. The other 11 patients were satisfied with the appearance and function of the injured digit after 6 months postoperatively.

CONCLUSION

The modified second toe flap technique based on the dorsal digital artery of the toe is a feasible choice to reconstruct the sensation and appearance of the injured fingertip with current microsurgical techniques.

Hypoxia-induced CCL2/CCR2 axis in adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs) promotes angiogenesis by human dermal microvascular endothelial cells (HDMECs) in flap tissues

Flap expansion has become an important method widely used in wound repair and organ reconstruction. However, distal skin flap ischemic necrosis remains a problematic complication. In this study, integrative bioinformatics analyses indicated the upregulation of C-C motif chemokine ligand 2 (CCL2) and C-C motif chemokine receptor 2 (CCR2) in reperfusion-exposed skin flap tissues. In adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs, CD90-positive, CD29-positive, CD34-negative, and CD106-negative) exposed to hypoxia, HIF-1α and CCL2 levels were significantly elevated. Conditioned medium (CM) from hypoxia-stimulated ADSCs promoted HDMEC proliferation, migration, and tube formation, partially inhibited by sh-CCL2-induced CCL2 knockdown or neutralized antibody-induced CCL2 depletion in ADSCs. Consistently, CCL2, CCR2, TNF-α, TLR2, and TLR4 protein levels in HDMECs were significantly increased by hypoxia-treated ADSCs CM, and partially decreased by sh-CCL2-induced CCL2 knockdown or neutralizing antibody-induced CCL2 knockdown in ADSCs. In the flap expansion model, ADSCs transplantation significantly improved flap survival and angiogenesis by endothelial cells in flap tissues, whereas CCL2 knockdown in ADSCs partially eliminated the improvement by ADSCs transplantation; overexpression of CCL2 in ADSCs further promoted the effects of ADSCs transplantation on skin flap. In conclusion, the CCL2/CCR2 axis in ADSCs could be induced by hypoxia, promoting HDMEC proliferation, migration, and tube formation and improving flap survival and angiogenesis in flap tissues.

Use of Dermal Regenerative Templates for Burns

Autologous skin grafting has permitted survival and restoration of function in burn injuries of ever larger total body surface area (TBSA) sizes. However, the goal of replacing "like with like" skin structures is often impossible because full-thickness donor harvesting requires primary closure at the donor site for it to heal. Split-thickness skin grafting (STSG), on the other hand, only harvests part of the dermis at the donor site, allowing it to re-epithelialize on its own. The development of the first dermal regenerative template (DRT) in the late 1970s represented a major advance in tissue engineering that addresses the issue of insufficient dermal replacement when STSGs are applied to the full-thickness defect. This review aims to provide an overview of currently available DRTs in burn management from a clinician's perspective. It focuses on the main strengths and pitfalls of each product and provides clinical pearls based on clinical experience and evidence.

Concepts in soft-tissue reconstruction of the contracted hand and upper extremity after burn injury

Burns and their subsequent contracture result in devastating functional and aesthetic consequences which disproportionally affect the upper extremity. By focusing on reconstruction with analogous tissue and utilizing the reconstructive elevator, function can be restored concomitantly with form and aesthetic appearance. General concepts for soft-tissue reconstruction after burn contracture are presented for different sub-units and joints.

ALTERING THE MARKING OF REVERSE POSTERIOR INTEROSSEOUS ARTERY FLAP

Background

Full-thickness defects on the dorsum of the hand requires thin, soft, and pliable skin for which there are limited locoregional flaps. The reverse posterior interosseous artery (PIA) flap based on the communicating artery fulfills all above requirements and can reach upto the fingers. However, there has been discrepancy in the surface marking of the flap and the anatomical position of the vessel pedicle. We share our alteration with the marking and ease of harvesting this flap.

Method and material

This is a prospective study conducted at a private teaching hospital in Karachi, over a period of 2 years from November 2017 to December 2019. After taking consent and ensuring confidentiality of all patients who had PIA flap reconstruction, we collected patient's demographic details, mode of injury, and flap surface area. We altered the described skin marking and took measures to prevent venous congestion and noted the outcomes in term of flap congestion and flap loss.

Results

Twenty-eight patients with a mode age of 32 years were operated during this period. The majority (64.2%) had a motor vehicle accident and machine injuries. The mean surface area of flaps was 6 × 10 cm², and 11 (39.2%) flaps had venous supercharging. All patients had a 10-20° wrist extension splint for 2 weeks. The mean follow-up of the patients was 14 ± 5 days, and 6 (21.4%) flaps developed a minimal marginal flap loss, which was managed conservatively.

Conclusion

By minimally altering our surface marking, we experienced a easy and quick harvesting of this flap. However, one has to be vigilant and take all described precautions for venous congestion.

SERRATUS ANTERIOR MUSCLE FLAP FOR RECONSTRUCTION OF EXTREMITY INJURIES

Objective:

To report the use of the serratus anterior free tissue transfer in the treatment of traumatic injuries.

Methods:

Twenty-six free flaps or serratus pedicled flaps were performed for reconstruction of traumatic extremity injuries.

Results:

Complete flap survival was recorded in 20 limbs and 3 patients had circulatory complications. Even with the review of vascular anastomoses, partial flap necrosis could not be prevented and required a skin graft after debridement in the necrotic area. Another flap also required reexploration as a result of heavy congestion due to impaired venous return. Superficial wound infection was found in three patients and treated with conservative measures. Regarding the donor area, seroma formation was found in 8 cases; drainage was necessary in 2, and the others were resolved spontaneously. In 2, bruises formed and were later drained. In 1 limb there was long thoracic nerve injury and scapular winging.

Conclusion:

According to this study, the serratus anterior muscle flap is an excellent tool for treating small complex lesions in the extremities. Level of Evidence IV; Case series .

A hitchhiking approach to reconstruct the finger pulp and the subsequent 1st toe hemi-pulp donor site defect

BACKGROUND

The free 1st toe hemi-pulp transfer for finger pulp reconstruction was acknowledged as the optimal one. However, the treatment of the 1st toe donor defect, owning to the impossibility of primary closure, was frequently oversimplified. This study presented a "hitchhiking" approach to resurface finger pulp and the subsequent 1st toe donor site defect in a one-stage procedure.

METHODS

From 2014 to 2019, finger pulp amputations (13 digits in 12 patients) were reconstructed with free 1st toe pulp flaps, and the donor site was resurfaced by the 2nd toe pedicled flap with the 2nd toe's primary closure. Therapeutic evaluation of repaired fingers and toes was based on cold intolerance, two-point discrimination (2PD), and gait disturbance.

RESULTS

All finger and toe pulp flaps survived uneventfully. The average size of free 1st toe and pedicled 2nd toe flap was 3.1 cm × 2.0 cm (3.5 cm × 1.4 cm to 4.2 cm × 2.5 cm) and 3.0 cm × 1.1 cm (2.0 cm × 0.9 cm to 3.8 cm × 1.5 cm), respectively. The regained average static 2PD on the finger and 1st toe pulps was 6 mm (ranged 5-10 mm) and 4 mm (ranged 2-6 mm), respectively. All reconstructed 1st toe pulps were qualified for normal gait. One patient complained the mild cold intolerance, and hammer-toe deformities were involved in two cases.

CONCLUSION

To fulfill donor site care and cost-effective rule, the toe-to-finger pulp reconstruction can't underestimate the morbidity on 1st toe donor site due to inappropriate intervention. Equally importantly, the hitchhiking pedicled 2nd toe flap should be recruited in the reconstructive scheme.

First dorsal metacarpal artery perforator-based propeller flap: functional anatomy and clinical application in soft-tissue defects of the dorsal hand and digits

BACKGROUND

Many approaches have been reported to repair soft-tissue defects of the hand using dorsal metacarpal artery flaps. Use of a perforator-based propeller flap from the first intermetacarpal space to the dorsum of the hand has been described. The aim of this study was to confirm the functional anatomy of a first dorsal metacarpal artery (FDMA) perforator flap.

METHODS

Twenty-nine fixed cadaveric hands were dissected to determine the origin, course, and branches of the FDMA. Clinically, five cases of soft tissue defects of the hand underwent reconstructive surgery using an FDMA perforator-based propeller flap.

RESULTS

The FDMA was found in 27 specimens (93%). The ulnar branch of the FDMA always supplied the cutaneous perforator (mean ± SD, 4.3 ± 1.6), and the most distal cutaneous perforating branch was found along the metacarpal long axis within 25 mm of the tip of the metacarpal head with high frequency (28/29, 97%). In the two hands that had aplasia of the FDMA, well-developed perforators arose directly from the radial artery and advanced to the metacarpal head. Seven hands (24%) had perforators arising from the palmar arterial system, penetrating through or passing close by the second metacarpal bone. In clinical application, all the flaps survived completely without major complications.

CONCLUSIONS

The FDMA perforator-based propeller flap is minimally invasive and technically simple. It is expected to be a new option for hand reconstruction.

Partial second-toe pulp free flap for fingertip reconstruction: Experience and surgical tips to minimize complications

BACKGROUND

Traumatic fingertip injury is a common hand injury and various methods are available to address them. The partial second-toe pulp (PSTP) free flap is useful because of the similarity in shape, texture, and sensation to the fingertips. However, there may be many difficulties during surgery. The purpose of this report is to make the surgery easier and minimize complications by sharing the surgical tips of the authors obtained through many experiences.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Thirty patients who underwent PSTP free flap due to trauma were reviewed retrospectively from February 2015 to June 2018. The average age of the patients was 49.4 years. Seventeen were injured on the right side and 13 were on the left side. After removal of the injured tissue, a teardrop-shaped flap was harvested from the medial side of the second toe. When inset, skin graft or vein graft was performed if necessary. When primary closure of the donor site was difficult, skin graft was performed (n = 21). The factors noted during surgery were analyzed.

RESULTS

The flap size was 2.39 (range: 1.5-5) x 1.29 (range: 1-1.8) cm² . All flaps survived. Venous congestion was found in two patients, neuroma was found in one patient, and partial necrosis was found in two patients; all recovered with conservative care. The mean follow up periods was 5.79 (range: 2-18) months. None of the patients had functional impairment.

CONCLUSION

Successful reconstruction and enhanced functional and cosmetic effects can be achieved using surgical tips.

An Alternative Dermal Template for Reconstruction of Complex Upper Extremity Wounds

The management of upper extremity soft-tissue defects with full-thickness skin loss and denuded tendon and/or bone traditionally requires vascularized tissue reconstruction. Herein, we present patient outcomes utilizing Novosorb Bio-degradable Temporizing Matrix (PolyNovo, Wilmington, Del.), a novel bilaminar dermal regenerative template, followed by skin grafting, for reconstruction of complex upper extremity injuries with exposed tendon and/or bone. We retrospectively reviewed all patients treated at our Level I trauma center with upper extremity trauma and exposed tendon and/or bone who had application of Novosorb Bio-degradable Temporizing Matrix over a 1-year period. At the time of surgery, all nonviable tissue was debrided, and the product was applied according to the manufacturer’s instructions. If required, split thickness skin grafting was performed once neodermis appeared perfused, or after the sealing layer delaminated spontaneously. Six patients (four men, two women) with an average age of 49.8 (35–60) years were included in the study. Average defect size measured 97 cm² (10–440). Average time to complete healing was 45 days (27–57). Three patients reepithelialized spontaneously and did not require grafting; average defect size in these patients was 26 cm² (10–42). There were no infections and no loss of the dermal matrix or skin graft, when performed. All patients healed without complication after grafting and did not require further surgical treatment. Therefore, we contend that Novosorb BTM is a dermal regenerative template that shows potential as an alternative option to flap reconstruction in select patients after upper extremity trauma and soft-tissue defects with exposed tendon and/or bone. Further studies will be required to refine indications and evaluate outcomes.

The use of the posterior interosseous artery flap and anterolateral thigh flap for post-traumatic soft tissue reconstruction of the hand

The purpose of this study was to examine the differences between the use of a posterior interosseous artery (PIA) flap and an anterolateral thigh (ALT) flap for post-traumatic, medium-sized soft tissue reconstruction of the hand based on flap characteristics, postoperative complications, and aesthetic outcomes.From October, 2010 to March, 2016, 62 patients undergoing soft tissue reconstruction of the hand with 30 PIA flaps and 32 ALT flaps were included in this study. The 62 patients were divided into the PIA flap group and the ALT flap group. The differences between the 2 groups were analyzed.The 62 patients included 52 males and 10 females, and the mean age at the time of surgery was 41 years. The flap failure rate was 13.3% (4/30) in the PIA flap group and 9.4% (3/32) in the ALT flap group. No significant differences in flap failure rate, recipient site complication rate, or donor site complication rate were observed between the 2 groups. However, the operative time (136 min vs 229 min) and aesthetic outcomes (flap bulk swelling, 0 cases vs 31 cases) were statistically significantly different.Both the pedicled PIA flap and the free ALT flap were comparable for the reconstruction of post-traumatic, medium-sized soft tissue defects of the hand according to the evaluated outcomes of postoperative complications. Based on the surgical characteristics of the flap and the evaluation of aesthetic outcomes, the pedicled PIA flap was significantly superior to the free ALT flap.

The Need to Improve Patient-Centered Outcome Reporting Following Lower Extremity Flap Reconstruction: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

INTRODUCTION

 Research in lower extremity (LE) wound management involving flap reconstruction has primarily focused on surgeon-driven metrics. There has been a paucity in research that evaluates patient-centered outcomes (PCO). This systematic review and meta-analysis examines articles published between 2012 and 2020 to assess whether reporting of functional and quality of life (QOL) outcomes have increased in frequency and cohesiveness, compared with the previous two decades.

METHODS

 PubMed and Ovid were queried with appropriate Medical Subject Heading (MeSH) terms for studies published between June 2012 and July 2020. For inclusion, each study had to report any outcome of any tissue transfer procedure to the LE in comorbid patients, including complication rates, ambulation rates, flap success rates, and/or QOL measures. The PCO reporting prevalence was compared with a previous systematic review by Economides et al which analyzed papers published between 1990 and June 2012, using a Pearson's Chi-squared test.

RESULTS

 The literature search yielded 40 articles for inclusion. The proportion of studies reporting PCO was greater for literature published between 1990 and 2012 compared with literature published between 2012 and 2020 (86.0 vs. 50.0%, p < 0.001). Functional outcomes were more commonly reported between 1990 and 2012 (78.0 vs. 47.5%, p = 0.003); similarly, ambulatory status was reported more often in the previous review (70.0 vs. 40.0%, p = 0.004). This study solely examined the rate at which PCO were reported in the literature; the individual importance and effect on medical outcomes of each PCO was not evaluated.

CONCLUSION

 Less than 50% of the literature report functional outcomes in comorbid patients undergoing LE flap reconstruction. Surprisingly, PCO reporting has seen a downward trend in the past 8 years relative to the preceding two decades. Standardized inclusion of PCO in research regarding this patient population should be established, especially as health care and governmental priorities shift toward patient-centered care.

RECONSTRUCTION OF UPPER LIMB SOFT TISSUE INJURIES, EXCEPT FOR FINGERTIPS LESIONS

Objective:

The main purpose of this work was to evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of reconstructive procedures applied in upper limb soft tissue injuries according to their location.

Methods:

The study involved 94 male and 22 female patients (116 total) operated between April 2001 and November 2017 due to traumatic injuries in a upper limb. Individuals were evaluated considering their age, sex, etiology, reconstruction area , applied methodology and complications. The finger injuries were excluded.

Results:

The performed reconstruction procedures include 29 skin grafts; six advancement flaps; seven rotation flaps; 33 pedicled fasciocutaneous flaps, 9 free fasciocutaneous flaps; 5 pedicled muscle flaps; 12 free muscle flaps, three pedicled musculocutaneous flaps; one free musculocutaneous flap; 11 neurovascular free flaps.

Conclusion:

Reconstructive procedures in the upper limbs are diverse, varying from skin grafting to free flaps. The indication of the best option depends on the type of injurie and the surgeon. The final goal is to reach the best functional result combined with the lowest possible morbidity. Level of Evidence IV, Case series.

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 coverage of the upper limb: A flap reconstruction overview

Different opinions about the reconstructive choice for upper limb are described in literature: advancement or rotation flaps, regional flaps and free flaps are the most common reconstructive options. Local and regional flaps can be used to cover small defects while large wounds require the use of free flaps or distant pedicled flaps. The coverage of large wounds opens a discussion about when to use free flaps and when distant pedicled flaps. This review will describe the different methods used for the coverage of soft tissues injuries affecting hand and/or forearm (excluding fingers). The aim is to show all flap reconstructive options in order to support the inexperienced surgeon during the management of traumatic injuries of the upper limb.

Aesthetic functional reconstruction of the mutilated hand: Indications and selection of reconstructive techniques

Advances in microsurgery together with improvements in reconstructive surgical techniques over recent decades have enlarged the scope of available techniques for mutilated hand reconstruction, shifting the reconstructive paradigm from restoring hand function to providing the best functional and aesthetic results with minimal donor-site morbidity. Successful reconstruction of a mutilated hand should no longer be measured only by the degree of improvement of hand function but also by a more aesthetic hand appearance as well as by improved psychological well-being. In this article, the authors present their concept of aesthetic functional reconstruction of the mutilated hand with a focus on the indications and selection of reconstructive techniques. They emphasize that in order to select the most appropriate technique, providing the best functional and aesthetic outcomes with minimal donor-site morbidity for each individual patient, it is imperative for the reconstructive hand surgeon to possess perfect mastery of all available surgical techniques, thorough understanding of functional and aesthetic requirements and accurate appreciation of multidimensional reconstruction of a given defect of the hand. They have concluded that in precisely indicated cases, successful replantation of an amputated hand or digits remains the best reconstructive procedure designed to obtain a more functional and more normal-appearing hand, whereas, toe-to-hand transplantation, in cases of failed or impossible digit replantation, provides better results than any other digit reconstruction techniques aimed at achieving functioning digits with good appearance. Although skin graft and various distant pedicled flaps and free flaps may be valid options for coverage of some soft tissue defects of the hand, reverse flow forearm flaps, especially those based on the secondary arteries of the forearm, are often the best-suited reconstructive options for like-with-like hand reconstruction. They can provide the best matching of color, texture, soft-tissue volume, donor-recipient tissue interface and fulfill all the aesthetic and functional reconstruction requirements of moderate-sized or even large soft tissue defects of the hand, with acceptable donor site morbidity.

Management of complex forearm defects: A multidisciplinary approach

Complex forearm defects with significant damage to, or loss of skin, tendon, muscle, bone and neurovascular structures represent a great challenge for surgeons. The management of such injuries, whether a result of trauma or tumor resection, is focused on preservation of the damaged limb and restoration of hand function. A multidisciplinary approach combining plastic and orthopedic surgical expertise in a coordinated team is proposed to address these challenging cases. The authors have laid emphasis on adequate debridement for wound bed preparation, bone stabilization and reconstruction for a stable bony framework, vascular repair for early revascularization, musculotendinous and nerve reconstruction as well as vascularized tissue coverage on a case-to-case basis to facilitate optimal functional recovery. They also maintain that besides expedient surgical treatment, early mobilization based on an individualized rehabilitation program as well as psychological and socio-professional supports are necessary means of achieving rapid and successful social integration.

Soft Tissue Coverage for Severe Infections

Coverage of soft tissue defects in the upper extremity caused by infection and debridement of infected tissue is a challenging problem. Treatment starts with prompt identification and eradication of infection, including antibiotics and extensive debridement. Optimizing the patient's medical and nutritional status can facilitate eradication of infection and wound healing. Coverage of soft tissue defects caused by infection and debridement demands consideration of many factors. Options include healing by primary or secondary intention, skin grafts, local flaps, and distant flaps. Negative pressure wound therapy and acellular dermal matrices can also aid in coverage.

Free Flaps for Soft Tissue Reconstruction of Digits

Soft tissue reconstruction of the digit is challenging for hand surgeons because it must satisfy both functional and aesthetic requirements. A wide variety of treatment options exist. A free flap can be an alternative solution in some clinical situations. This article has 2 purposes. First, it discusses various considerations for free-flap usage for reconstruction of soft tissue defects of the digits and the available options. Second, it provides more detailed information regarding the 3 commonly used free flaps, namely, the partial toe pulp flap, radial artery superficial palmar branch flap, and arterialized venous flap.

Customized reconstruction of complex soft-tissue defect in the hand and forearm with individual design of chain-linked bilateral anterolateral thigh perforator flaps

BACKGROUND

Complex soft-tissue defects of upper extremities still have a high rate of amputation, as the reconstruction of complex soft-tissue defects is always difficult even with the largest conventional free flap. The anterolateral thigh perforator (ALTP) flap is one of the most popular procedures used for the coverage of complex soft-tissue defects of extremities. However, problems associated with donor-site morbidity and inability to repair complex soft-tissue defects in a one-stage procedure persist. The purpose of this study was to present a novel design of using chain-linked bilateral ALTP flap and its various designs for customized reconstruction of complex soft-tissue defects in the hands and forearms.

METHODS

From June 2009 to June 2017, we retrospectively analyzed 15 patients with complex soft-tissue defects in the hands and forearms. All patients in this series underwent extremity reconstruction using the chain-linked bilateral ALTP flaps. Three different types of chain-linked bilateral ALTP flaps were created in this study based on wound characteristics and the maximum available skin paddle size at all donor sites.

RESULTS

The chain-linked bilateral ALTP flaps were successfully harvested for the reconstruction of complex soft-tissue defects in the hands and forearms. Among them, ten cases were repaired with chain-linked bipaddle ALTP flaps, two cases were treated with chain-linked tripaddle ALTP flaps, and the remaining three cases were used with chain-linked multi-lobed ALTP chimeric flaps. The sizes of the skin paddles ranged from 11 cm × 7 cm to 42 cm × 8 cm. The areas of the total flaps ranged from 245 cm² to 650 cm² (mean 419.6 cm²). Only one case required re-exploration because of the venous congestion. The donor sites were closed directly. The mean follow-up time was 16.4 months. Most cases showed satisfactory contour.

CONCLUSION

The chain-linked bilateral ALTP flap is a reliable option for one-stage reconstruction of complex soft-tissue defects in the hands and forearms with limited donor-site morbidity. It also provides various flap designs, which allow for more individualized treatment approaches.

Secondary Surgery Following Replantation and Revascularization

Secondary surgery following digital replantation and revascularization is common and is often performed to improve range of motion, tendon gliding, sensibility, and/or contour. In this article, the authors present the most common secondary procedures performed after digital replantation or revascularization and discuss current techniques. The importance of patient selection and postoperative compliance with ongoing hand therapy is paramount to achieving good outcomes.

Flap Preconditioning with the Cyclic Mode (Triangular Waveform) of Pressure-Controlled Cupping in a Rat Model: An Alternative Mode to the Continuous System

BACKGROUND

Improving flap survival is essential for successful soft-tissue reconstruction. Although many methods to increase the survival of the distal flap portion have been attempted, there has been no widely adopted procedure. The authors evaluated the effect of flap preconditioning with two different modes (continuous and cyclic) of external volume expansion (pressure-controlled cupping) in a rat dorsal flap model.

METHODS

Thirty rats were randomly assigned to the control group and two experimental groups (n = 10 per group). The continuous group underwent 30 minutes of preconditioning with -25 mmHg pressure once daily for 5 days. The cyclic group received 0 to -25 mmHg pressure for 30 minutes with the cyclic mode once daily for 5 days. On the day after the final preconditioning, caudally based 2 × 8-cm dorsal random-pattern flaps were raised and replaced in the native position. On postoperative day 9, the surviving flap area was evaluated.

RESULTS

The cyclic group showed the highest flap survival rate (76.02 percent), followed by the continuous and control groups (64.96 percent and 51.53 percent, respectively). All intergroup differences were statistically significant. Tissue perfusion of the entire flap showed similar results (cyclic, 87.13 percent; continuous, 66.64 percent; control, 49.32 percent). Histologic analysis showed the most increased and organized collagen production with hypertrophy of the attached muscle and vascular density in the cyclic group, followed by the continuous and control groups.

CONCLUSION

Flap preconditioning with the cyclic mode of external volume expansion is more effective than the continuous mode in an experimental rat model.

Reconstruction of post-traumatic upper extremity soft tissue defects with pedicled flaps: An algorithmic approach to clinical decision making

PURPOSE

Pedicled flaps are still the workhorse flaps for reconstruction of upper limb soft tissue defects in many centers across the world. They are lifeboat options for coverage in vessel deplete wounds. In spite of their popularity existing algorithms are limited to a particular region of upper limb; a general algorithm involving entire upper limb which helps in clinical decision making is lacking. We attempt to propose one for the day to day clinical practice.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis of patients who underwent pedicled flaps for coverage of post-traumatic upper extremity (arm, elbow, forearm, wrist & hand) soft tissue defects within the period of January 2016 to October 2017 was performed. Patients were divided into groups according to the anatomical location of the defects. The flaps performed for different anatomical regions were enlisted. Demographic data and complications were recorded. An algorithm was proposed based on our experience, with a particular emphasis made to approach to clinical decision making.

RESULTS

Two hundred and twelve patients were included in the study. Mean age was 27.3 years (range: 1-80 years), 180 were male, and 32 were female. Overall flap success rate was 98%, the following complications were noted marginal flap necrosis requiring no additional procedure other than local wound care in 32 patients (15%), partial flap necrosis requiring flap advancement or extra flap in 15 patients (7%), surgical site infection in 11 patients (5%), flap dehiscence requiring re-suturing in 5 patients (2.4%), total flap necrosis 4 patients (2%).

CONCLUSION

The proposed algorithm allows a reliable and consistent method for addressing diverse soft tissue defects in the upper limb with high success rate.