Pedicled and free radial forearm flaps for reconstruction of the elbow, wrist, and hand

Case report of substantial reconstruction of second ray segment by osteo-tendo-cutaneous pedicled radial forearm flap

Introduction and importance: The hand is one of the most vital organ that the surgeon aims to preserve its function and natural appearance. Gunshot injuries are common, especially in a war zone, and unfortunately, they create complex wounds that are hard to reconstruct and infection is very common. In this article, we report rebuilding segment of index finger with a pedicled osteo-tendo-cutaneous radial forearm flap. Case presentation: A 50-year-old man-African with no past medical comorbidities, sustained trauma to his left index finger by high-velocity injury that led to composite tissue loss including metacarpal and proximal phalanx. After applying the initial irrigation and dressing to the wound, his hand was supported by a volar cast then he was referred to the hospital. The hand was examined at the operation room and the index finger was found to be hanged with a medial skin pedicle with necrotic and exposed bone and tendon. He underwent a session of debridement followed by reconstruction using a pedicled osteo-cutaneous radial forearm flap accompanied with metacarpophalangeal joint arthrodesis. Clinical discussion: A significant number of war-related hand injuries resulted in amputations because there were not enough facilities or doctors. While they are alternatives to free flap, abdominal and regional flaps won't yield the same outcomes. The second ray of the hand is reshaped using a radial flap, producing an acceptable result. Conclusion: The Radial forearm flap was used to reconstruct segment of index finger and fulfill our requirements, which include bone, tendon, and skin cover. Additionally, this is a simple and single stage procedure and micro-surgical equipment is not necessary.

Mid-term Clinical Outcome of Microvascular Gracilis Muscle Flaps for Defects of the Hand

PURPOSE

Gracilis muscle flaps are useful to cover defects of the hand. However, there are currently no studies describing outcome measurements after covering soft tissue defects using free flaps in the hand.

AIM

To analyze mid-term results of gracilis muscle flap coverage for defects on the hand, with regard to functional and esthetic integrity.

METHODS

16 patients aged 44.3 (range 20-70) years were re-examined after a mean follow-up of 23.6 (range 2-77) months. Mean defect size was 124 (range 52-300) cm2 located palmar (n = 9), dorsal (n = 6), or radial (n = 1). All flaps were performed as microvascular muscle flaps, covered by split thickness skin graft.

RESULTS

Flaps survived in 15 patients. 6 patients required reoperations. Reasons for revisions were venous anastomosis failure with total flap loss (n = 1) requiring a second gracilis muscle flap; necrosis at the tip of the flap (n = 1) with renewed split thickness skin cover. A surplus of the flap (n = 2) required flap thinning and scar corrections were performed in 2 patients. Mean grip strength was 25% (range 33.3-96.4%) compared to the contralateral side and mean patient-reported satisfaction 1.4 (range 1-3) (1 = excellent; 4 = poor).

CONCLUSIONS

Gracilis muscle flaps showed a survival rate of 94%. Patients showed good clinical outcomes with acceptable wrist movements and grip strength as well as high reported satisfaction rates. Compared to fasciocutaneous free flaps, pliability and thinness especially on the palmar aspect of the hand are advantageous. Hence, covering large defects of the hand with a gracilis muscle flap can be a very satisfactory procedure.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

IV observational.

A Nationally Validated Novel Risk Assessment Calculator for Prediction of Unplanned Reoperations and Readmissions in Hand Surgery

BACKGROUND

Risk predictors are an emerging tool as the need for individualized risk estimation in clinical decision-making persists. Existing risk indices have had limited success in accurately predicting hand surgery risks. This study provides a novel risk calculator for reliably predicting reoperations and readmissions in hand surgery.

METHODS

Hand surgeries from the National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP) 2012-2019 database were identified. Independent predictors of 30-day unplanned reoperation and readmission were identified in the modeling sample (2012-2019) and subsequently weighted to generate a Novel Risk Score (NRS). The NRS was validated on a 2020 NSQIP hand surgery cohort and compared to the modified frailty index (mFI-5) and the modified Charlson Comorbidity Index (mCCI) with receiver operating characteristics (ROC) analysis.

RESULTS

Eighty-three thousand four hundred nine hand surgeries were identified for modeling. Reoperations and readmissions rates were 1.1% and 1.3%, respectively. Independent risk factors included male gender, inpatient status, smoking, dialysis dependence, transfusion within 72 h of surgery, wound classification, ASA class, diabetes mellitus, CHF, sepsis or septic shock, emergent case, and operative time longer than 75 min (all P < 0.05). ROC analysis of the 2020 cohort rendered an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.730, which demonstrates the accuracy of this prediction model. The mFI-5 and mCCI rendered AUCs of 0.580 and 0.585, respectively.

CONCLUSION

We present a validated risk prediction tool for unplanned reoperations and readmissions following hand surgery that outperforms the mFI-5 and mCCI that are available online. Future studies should evaluate clinical efficacy.

Management of Posttraumatic Posterior Elbow Defects by Nonmicrosurgical Reconstruction

Introduction  Reconstruction of posterior defects is challenging due to the quality and uniqueness of the excess skin at the elbow that is durable, thick, pliable, and without much subcutaneous tissue. The goal of reconstruction is to cover the elbow defects with a durable skin cover that will facilitate full passive range of motion. In this era of microsurgery, free tissue transfer is feasible for almost any defect. However, in this article, we discuss various locoregional and pedicled flap options and the protocol followed at our institute to tackle posttraumatic posterior elbow defects.

Materials and Methods  This is a retrospective analysis of 48 patients with posttraumatic posterior elbow defects admitted from January 2012 to February 2020. Posterior elbow defects were assessed according to the size and location and managed with a nonmicrosurgical reconstruction.

Results  Of 48 patients, 32 were managed with nonmicrosurgical flaps. Eighteen patients had large defects and 14 had small defects. Reverse lateral forearm flap was the workhorse flap for defect coverage. Of 32 flaps, nine developed complications; however, no patient had total flap necrosis.

Conclusion  Posterior elbow defects are a difficult problem to tackle. To achieve optimal results, all patients with elbow trauma should be attended and managed by orthopaedic and plastic surgeons in collaboration for optimal results. We believe that most of these defects can be resurfaced by nonmicrosurgical reconstruction with proper planning and execution and their utility cannot be understated.

Malignant transformation of a phalangeal enchondroma into a recurrent grade II chondrosarcoma requiring successive transcarpal amputations: a case report

We report a case of malignant transformation of a phalangeal enchondroma into a grade II chondrosarcoma requiring two successive transcarpal amputations owing to recurrence. Soft tissue defects were repaired using single-stage reconstruction with a posterior interosseous artery flap. The 2-year follow-up assessment was satisfactory and no recurrence was observed.

A strong reconstruction option for tissue loss on hand and wrist due to firearm injury in the Syrian war: Reverse posterior interosseous flap

All of the injuries were the open injuries with bone or tendon structures in the hand and wrist region as a result of the firearm injury (FI) in the Syria. In the study, we assessed the outcomes of the posterior interosseous flap (PIF) on hand and wrist that we used for the Syrian injured people including civilians and soldiers in this War. PIF was applied to 77 patients who composed of 43 female and 34 male that all patients were evaluated for tissue loss resulting from gunshot wounds and injured in the War between 2014 and 2020 years with tissue loss in hand and wrist as a result of FI. The flap survival rate was 100% for all the patients. The dimensions of flaps ranged from 4.1 cm × 2.2 cm to 9cm × 5.4 cm with 0.51 ± 0.12 cm thickness. The mean pedicle length was 6.33 ± 1.08 cm. The surgery for PIF took 68.8 ± 22.1 minutes, while blood loss was 60 ± 24 mL. We observed no palsy conditions including the posterior interosseous nerve. The donor sites were treated by primary intention in the patients. We found the superiority of PIF with the postoperative follow-up comfort, ease of fracture healing, easy and fast, easy-to-apply method and no second additional session requirement in FI patients. We did not detect flap necrosis in any patient or observe a flap-related complication. As a result of the present study, it strongly supports the thesis that PIF is the best option in these cases.

Upper limb traumatic injuries: A concise overview of reconstructive options

Different options for upper limb reconstruction are described in literature: advancement or rotation flaps, regional flaps and free flaps are the most common. Local and regional flaps can represent the reconstructive options for small defects while large wounds require the use of free flaps or distant pedicled flaps. In case of large wound, the use of free flaps rather than distant pedicle flaps is usually preferred. To choose the best reconstructive option, it is essential for the surgeon to have a general overview about the different methods.

In this review the Authors will refer to the most commonly used methods to cover soft tissues injuries affecting the dorsum and the palm of the hand and the forearm (excluding fingers). The aim is to show all flap reconstructive options so as to support the inexperienced surgeon during the management of traumatic injuries of the upper limb.

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Reconstruction of traumatic injuries of the upper limbs can be challenging.

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Small defects can be covered by local and regional flaps while large wounds need the use of free or distant pedicled flaps.

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The literature shows different opinions whether to use pedicled flaps (regional or distant) or free flaps.

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Dermal substitutes can be considered in patients who are not suitable for flaps reconstruction.

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Patient related factors and surgical background can significantly interfere with the surgical reconstructive solution.

Retrospective analysis of free temporoparietal fascial flap for defect reconstruction of the hand and the distal upper extremity

INTRODUCTION

Soft tissue reconstruction of the hand and distal upper extremity is challenging to preserve the function of the hand as good as possible. Therefore, a thin flap has been shown to be useful. In this retrospective study, we aimed to show the use of the free temporoparietal fascial flap in soft tissue reconstruction of the hand and distal upper extremity.

METHODS

We analysed the outcome of free temporoparietal fascial flaps that were used between the years 2007and 2016 at our institution. Major and minor complications, defect location and donor site morbidity were the main fields of interest.

RESULTS

14 patients received a free temporoparietal fascial flap for soft tissue reconstruction of the distal upper extremity. Minor complications were noted in three patients and major complications in two patients. Total flap necrosis occurred in one patient.

CONCLUSION

The free temporoparietal fascial flap is a useful tool in reconstructive surgery of the hand and the distal upper extremity with a low donor site morbidity and moderate rates of major and minor complications.

The use of dorsoradial forearm flap for the treatment of dorsal hand defect

Generally dorsal hand defects are often closed with a flap. Dorsoradial forearm artery flap has generally been used in thumb defects; however, it can also be used in the reconstruction of dorsal hand defects thanks to its wide rotation arc and appropriate pedicle length. In this case report, we presented the outcome of a case where the dorsoradial forearm flap was applied to treat the dorsal hand defect. A 27-year-old patient was admitted to emergency room with trauma on hand. Fixation of metacarpal bone fractures was performed. The dorsoradial forearm flap was elevated and inserted in order to close an opening exposing bones and tendons in the dorsum of hand. There was no complication with flap viability in the postoperative period. Patient's joint range of motion and vital functions were acceptable. Dorsoradial forearm flap, which is generally used in thumb reconstruction, can also be used in dorsal hand defects.

Reconstruction of complex shallow defects of the extremities with free serratus musculofascial flap

Background/aim

Thin and flexible flaps are needed for the repair of extremity tissue defects. Serratus fascia flaps are the most suitable options. There are only a few case reports and case series in the literature. We have aimed to increase the success rate by taking the serratus fascia flaps together with some muscle tissue for the repair of extremity tissue defects.

Materials and methods

Between 2006 and 2015, 12 free serratus musculofascial flaps (FSMFFs) were transferred to 11 patients (8 males, 3 females) who had tissue shallow defects of the extremities due to different etiologic factors. The mean age was 24.6 years. Hospital records and patient photographs were reviewed and age, sex, etiologic cause, follow-up period, complication, flap success, cosmetic appearance, and functional results of the extremity were examined.

Results

The mean follow-up period was 29.5 months (7–109 months). All of the flaps survived fully and no partial or full necrosis was observed. Partial graft loss was encountered in one patient and it was recovered secondarily with wound dressing. A major deficiency was not experienced postoperatively in the functions and movements of the extremities retained. The cosmetic appearance of the operation area was acceptable or fine. The donor areas healed in all the patients without any problems, and the scars were hidden and inconspicuous.

Conclusion

In reconstruction of complex shallow defects of the extremities in which a gliding effect is desired, FSMFF may be an ideal option with its advantages as it does not sacrifice a major vessel, does not leave a hidden and short scar, can be harvested in wide dimensions, and allows the use of the surrounding tissues such as the latissimus dorsi muscle and scapular bone.

Brachioradialis muscle flap for posterior elbow defects: a simple and effective solution for the upper limb surgeon

BACKGROUND

Trauma, infection, and posterior surgical approach are the most frequent causes of soft tissue defects of posterior elbow. The brachioradialis (BR) muscle flap is a rotational muscular pedicled flap, and the dominant vascular pedicle arises from the radial recurrent artery in the proximal portion of the muscle. The aim of the study was to present the BR muscle flap as a simple, safe, and effective solution for the treatment of soft tissue defects of the posterior elbow.

METHODS

Five patients (3 males; mean age, 61.4 years; range, 40-73 years) with soft tissue defects of the posterior elbow underwent surgical treatment with the BR muscle flap. The causes of the defects were total elbow arthroplasty and postsurgical infection (n = 2), 1 patient with elbow arthrodesis due to neuropathic arthropathy, and postsurgical infection after open reduction and internal fixation of olecranon fractures (n = 2). All patients had a BR muscle flap and skin grafting. Orthopedic hardware was removed in 3 cases.

RESULTS

At the mean follow-up of 45 months (range, 26-61 months), all patients had viable and functional soft tissue coverage. All patients were free of infection, whereas 1 patient had a posterior elbow discomfort in daily activities. None of the patients reported wrist problems.

CONCLUSIONS

The BR muscle flap is a reliable solution, easy to harvest without requiring microsurgical expertise for small-size posterior elbow defects. It is a 1-stage procedure with no morbidity to the harvest site that provides stable and adequate coverage even in cases with postoperative infection.

Reconstruction of Traumatic Dorsal Loss of the Thumb: Four Different Surgical Approaches

BACKGROUND

This article outlines our methods for thumb reconstruction following dorsal skin loss injury located between the metacarpophalangeal joint (MPj) and the entire nail affecting skin, nail, tendon, and bone in different combinations but with intact sensate palmar skin.

METHODS

Between 1990 and 2015, 24 patients were treated for dorsal thumb defects using 4 different surgical techniques. Five cases of dorsal compound traumatic loss were reconstructed by custom-made dorsal great toe transfer. Four patients with dorsal skin and nail loss located at the distal phalanx level were covered with the homodigital flap with reverse flow vascularization. In 9 patients presenting skin defects between the MPj and the nail, reconstruction was achieved by means of the kite flap. Six cases suffered extensive dorsal skin loss, and reconstruction was performed using different types of radial forearm flaps (cutaneous, tendineocutaneous, osteocutaneous, and fascial).

RESULTS

Flap survival was obtained in all cases. No vascular complications occurred with free vascularized compound toe transfer.

CONCLUSIONS

Reconstruction of dorsal thumb defects is imperative and its approach is strictly correlated to type of defect, patient's requests, and flap alternatives. For defects with nail involvement, the free osteo-onychocutaneous flap harvested from the great toe provides the best aesthetic result in selected young and well-motivated patients. An alternative is represented by the dorsoulnar flap, when the defect is located distally, or the fascial pedicle radial forearm flap, for major dorsal thumb defects, in patients refusing microsurgical reconstruction. The kite flap still represents a feasible solution for medium-size defects with an intact nail.

Simultaneous reconstruction of the forearm extensor compartment tendon, soft tissue, and skin

Malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumor (MPNST) is a very rare type of sarcoma, with an incidence of 0.001%. MPNST has a 5-year survival rate near 80%, so successful reconstruction techniques are important to ensure the patient’s quality of life. Sarcoma of the forearm is known for its poor prognosis, which leads to wider excision, making reconstruction even more challenging due to the unique anatomical structure and delicate function of the forearm. A 44-year-old male presented with a large mass that had two aspects, measuring 9×6 cm and 7×5 cm, on the dorsal aspect of the right forearm. The extensor compartment muscles (EDM, EDC, EIP, EPB, EPL, ECRB, ECRL, APL) and invaded radius were resected with the mass. Tendon transfer of the entire extensor compartment with skin defect coverage using a 24×8 cm anterolateral thigh (ALT) perforator free flap was performed. The patient was discharged after 18 days without wound complications, and has not complained of discomfort during supination, pronation, or wrist extension/flexion through 3 years of follow-up. To our knowledge, this is the first report of successful reconstruction of the entire forearm extensor compartment with ALT free flap coverage after resection of MPNST.

Free Thoracoacromial Artery Perforator Flap for Skin Defects of the Dorsal Hand

Various flaps are used for skin defects of the dorsal hand and fingers. A sensory flap is not essential, but a thin and good color-matched flap is suitable, and donor site mobility of the flap should be considered. A reverse or free posterior interosseous artery perforator flap is one of the standard flaps. This flap requires no major arterial sacrifice, but direct closure of the donor site is difficult when the width of the flap is >3 cm, and there is also the risk of posterior interosseous nerve injury, especially the motor branch of the extensor carpi ulnaris muscle. The deltoid or acromial branch of the thoracoacromial artery has a large skin perforator, and this perforator is the vascular pedicle of the free thoracoacromial artery perforator flap. This flap is not bulky, is pliable and well color-matched for the dorsal hand, and direct closure of the donor site is easier than the posterior interosseous artery perforator flap. A free thoracoacromial artery perforator flap based on the deltoid or acromial branch is a good option for dorsal hand and finger reconstruction.

A new local muscle flap for elbow coverage-the medial triceps brachii flap: anatomy, surgical technique, and preliminary outcomes

BACKGROUND

The medial triceps brachii is vascularized by the middle collateral artery and the arterial circle of the elbow. This vascularization allows a distal pedicled use to cover soft tissue defects of the elbow. We report our experience using this flap to cover traumatic and postsurgical wounds.

METHODS

Patients who underwent a pedicled medial triceps brachii flap procedure between 2008 and 2015 were included. Data concerning characteristics of the patients, wound size, surgical technique, and complications were retrospectively reviewed. An independent observer examined patients and assessed outcome of the coverage procedure: wound healing, scar length, range of elbow motion, and patient satisfaction.

RESULTS

Eight patients were included (70.6 ± 17.7 years old at the time of surgery). All patients had serious comorbidities and risk factors of poor wound healing. Defects were due to postoperative healing complications (5 patients), skin necrosis secondary to an underlying olecranon fracture (1 patient), and direct open fractures (2 patients). Soft tissue defects had a median surface of 17 (14-22) cm². The olecranon was exposed in 7 cases and the medial humeral epicondyle in 1 case. Mean procedure duration was 83 ± 14 minutes. There was no intraoperative or postoperative complication. All patients healed properly at 3 weeks of follow-up. No wound recurrence or surgery-related complication was reported after a median follow-up of 40.5 (21.5-69.5) months.

CONCLUSION

Favorable outcomes in all of our 8 patients make this flap an interesting option to cover small to medium-sized defects of the posterior aspect of the elbow.

Traumatic Wounds of the Upper Extremity: Coverage Strategies

Soft tissue coverage of traumatic wounds of the upper extremity is often required to restore adequate function and form. An optimal coverage should be stable, durable, and able to withstand heavy demands of work, should allow free joint mobility, and should have an aesthetically acceptable appearance. Reconstructive options for coverage include autologous tissue and dermal skin substitutes. Multiple factors, including wound characteristics and complexity, general condition of the patient, and surgeon comfort and expertise, help in selection of the reconstructive technique. This article summarizes commonly used soft tissue reconstructive options for traumatic wounds of the upper extremity.

Microsurgical thumb repair and reconstruction

In this article, we review microsurgical reconstructive techniques available to treat thumb amputation at different levels based on our experience. We reference techniques used by other surgeons and identify the most suitable technique for different clinical situations. Indications and techniques for microsurgical partial or composite transfer of the great or second toe for thumb reconstruction are summarized. Different microsurgical transfer techniques suggest a great freedom of surgical choices. However, the choices are considerably restricted if all functional and cosmetic requirements are to be met. We recommend individualized surgical design and reconstruction because each case of thumb amputation is unique.

Scar Management of the Burned Hand

Burn injury can result in hypertrophic scar formation that can lead to debilitating functional deficits and poor aesthetic outcomes. Although nonoperative modalities in the early phase of scar maturation are critical to minimize hypertrophic scar formation, surgical management is often indicated to restore hand function. The essential tenant of operative scar management is release of tension, which can often be achieved through local tissue rearrangement. Laser therapy has emerged as a central pillar of subsequent scar rehabilitation. These treatment tools provide an effective resource for the reconstructive surgeon to treat hypertrophic hand scars.

Reverse Radial Forearm Flap to Provide Arterial Inflow to a Toe Transfer

Background: Toe-to-thumb transfer has become the gold standard for thumb reconstruction, but in badly mutilated hands, additional soft tissue coverage may be required or a suitable recipient artery may not be available. There are only 3 case reports describing the successful use of a reverse radial forearm flap for coverage of a soft tissue defect around the thumb as well as providing arterial inflow for a toe transfer, performed either simultaneously or secondarily. Methods: A single surgeon's experience of all toe-to-hand transfers performed in conjunction with a reverse radial forearm flap between 1995 and 2014 was reviewed, including patient demographics, type of toe transfer and vascular pedicle, whether immediate or secondary, follow-up, and complications. Results: Eight toe-to-hand transfers were performed in 7 patients-3 children (age range, 3-15 years) and 4 adults (age range, 19-39 years). Three patients underwent primary toe-to-thumb transfer simultaneously with a reverse radial forearm flap, and 5 patients underwent secondary toe-to-hand transfer between 4 months and 2½ years after an initial reverse radial forearm flap. All toe transfers survived completely. Average follow-up was 5.1 years. All patients were satisfied with the function and appearance of their reconstructed thumb. Conclusion: The reverse radial forearm flap is a very reliable procedure as a "Sister" or "Siamese" flap to provide immediate arterial inflow to a simultaneous toe-to-thumb transfer, or to provide primary soft tissue coverage on the radial aspect of the hand and subsequently provide a recipient arterial inflow for a secondary toe transfer.

Challenges Posed by Delayed Presentation of Mutilating Hand Injuries

Management of mutilating hand injury is a challenge for any hand surgeon. Delay in presentation makes management even more challenging, usually because of inadequate initial assessment, inadequate debridement leading to infection, and secondary loss of tissues from exposure and desiccation. The aim is to obtain a functional hand by radical debridement, adequate assessment of the injury, appropriately timed reconstruction, and physiotherapy and rehabilitation. The hand surgeon must pay attention to the appearance of the hand by elimination of deformities, unsightly scars and bulky flaps to help to restore confidence in the patient to face the demands of daily living.

Clinical Experiences with the Scapular Fascial Free Flap

Background

The goal of reconstruction is to provide coverage of exposed vital structures with well-vascularized tissue for optimal restoration of form and function. Here, we present our clinical experience with the use of the scapular fascial free flap to correct facial asymmetry and to reconstruct soft tissue defects of the extremities.

Methods

We used a scapular fascial free flap in 12 cases for soft tissue coverage of the extremities or facial soft tissue augmentation.

Results

The flaps ranged in size from 3×12 to 13×23 cm. No cases of total loss of the flap occurred. Partial loss of the flap occurred in 1 patient, who was treated with a turnover flap using the adjacent scapular fascial flap and a skin graft. Partial loss of the skin graft occurred in 4 patients due to infection or hematoma beneath the graft, and these patients underwent another skin graft. Four cases of seroma at the donor site occurred, and these cases were treated with conservative management or capsulectomy and quilting sutures.

Conclusions

The scapular fascial free flap has many advantages, including a durable surface for restoration of form and contours, a large size with a constant pedicle, adequate surface for tendon gliding, and minimal donor-site scarring. We conclude that despite the occurrence of a small number of complications, the scapular fascial free flap should be considered to be a viable option for soft tissue coverage of the extremities and facial soft tissue augmentation.

Pedicled hypothenar perforator flap: Indications and clinical application

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Soft-tissue defects of the palm and the palmar aspect of the fifth finger are a constant problem in reconstructive hand surgery. We present a possible approach to planning and harvesting pedicled hypothenar perforator flaps for the reconstruction of such defects.

METHODS

A hypothenar perforator flap was used to reconstruct a soft-tissue defect on the ulnar aspect of the palm and the palmar aspect of the fifth finger of 17 patients. The defects were located over the proximal phalanx of the fifth finger (n = 9), the palm (n = 5), and across both areas (n = 3). The size of the defects was up to 7.9 cm(2).

RESULTS

Eleven of the flaps healed primarily, out of which partial flap necrosis was observed in six. Four of these six flaps required operative revision, including debridement and delayed primary wound closure, while two healed secondarily. After an average of 26.6 days (range 21-45 days), all 17 patients achieved complete functional recovery. Despite the complications described, all the primary defects remained covered.

CONCLUSION

The pedicled hypothenar perforator flap is an option for reconstruction of ulnar-sided, soft-tissue defects of the palm and little finger. The flap is thin and the donor-site morbidity is low. Hand surgeons may wish to consider this flap when presented with soft-tissue defects in this area.

Thinned chimeric radial collateral artery perforator flap in complex distal thumb reconstruction

INTRODUCTION

Tissue loss accompanied by bone defects in the thumb is a challenging reconstruction problem. Traditional repair methods are unsatisfactory.

METHODS

Microsurgical thumb reconstruction was performed using 13 thinned chimeric radial collateral artery (RCA) perforator flaps. The flap was created with a thinned skin paddle and humeral bone segments using independent perforators. Primary defatting was completed when the thickness of the perforator entry was approximately similar to that in the periphery. The posterior cutaneous nerve of the arm was carried to make a sensory flap. Defects were 8.5 × 4.5 cm(2) on average (ranging in size from 4.5 × 1.5 to 15.0 × 6.0 cm(2)), and flap size was 9.0 × 5.5 cm(2) on average (ranging in size from 5.0 × 2.0 to 16.0 × 7.0 cm(2)), whereas the humeral fragments were 2.0 × 1.0 cm(2) on average (ranging in size from 1.5 × 0.5 to 4.0 × 1.5 cm(2)). All data were expressed as mean ± SD. The cosmetic appearance of the donor and recipient sites, Kapandji opposition score and static two-point discrimination of the operated thumb were evaluated during a follow-up visit.

RESULTS

Follow-up time was 16.6 months (ranging from 14 to 28 months). Flap thickness before defatting, measured immediately after flap elevation was 14.5 mm (ranging from 10.0 to 25.0 mm). Average flap thickness after defatting was 3.5 mm (ranging from 3.0 to 6.0 mm). Venous congestion occurred in two cases. Successful microsurgical revision was achieved in both cases. All flaps survived. Bone components achieved union in all cases at an average period of 4.8 months (ranging from 3 to 6 months). Based on Kapandji opposition score, the mean thumb opposition score was 6. The mean sensation of flap was 7.5 mm (ranging from 6 to 11 mm). No further flap revision or defatting procedures were required in all cases. Cosmetically acceptable results were achieved for all patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Findings proved that thinned chimeric RCA perforator flap is a beneficial microsurgical alternative for reconstructing complex bone and soft tissue defects in thumb.

Surgical management of soft tissue sarcomas: extremity sarcomas

Wide surgical resection is the recommended treatment for extremity soft tissue sarcomas. Chemotherapy and/or radiotherapy may improve local control, but with marginal effect on overall survival. Advanced reconstructive techniques and multidisciplinary care, including plastic surgery, may allow a higher rate of limb salvage. This report focuses on surgical and reconstructive aspects in the multimodality care of extremity sarcomas.

Microsurgical soft tissue and bone transfers in complex hand trauma

Treatment of complex hand trauma includes adequate debridement of nonviable tissue, early reconstruction, and careful selection of various available surgical procedures tailored to patients' needs and requests. Debridement of all necrotic tissue is crucial before any attempt at reconstruction. Surgeons should also consider cosmetic outcomes of the reconstructed hand and donor-site morbidity. For best results reconstruction should be performed early, with proper early postoperative therapy. This article reviews the principles and surgical options in the management of complex hand injuries involving the dorsal and the palmar aspects of the hand, and the different types of tissue in the hand.

Free skin flap coverage of the upper extremity

Successful soft tissue reconstruction of the upper extremity must provide stable coverage and restore function to the injured hand. To ensure the best possible outcome after traumatic upper extremity injuries, early radical debridement and early flap coverage that restores all missing tissue components is critical to allow early mobilization. Free flaps provide extraordinary versatility in reconstructing defects of soft tissue, muscle, tendon, and bone.

Optimizing functional and aesthetic outcomes of upper limb soft tissue reconstruction

This article highlights reconstructive principles in flap selection, use, and insetting to optimize functional and aesthetic outcomes after upper extremity reconstruction. The concept of respecting the aesthetic units of the hand during reconstruction is discussed. A current literature review of the aesthetic outcomes using various flaps, such as fasciocutaneous, fascia only, and muscle flaps, is provided. An approach based on aesthetic unit principles to upper extremity reconstruction is also highlighted to help optimize outcomes.

Flap reconstruction of the elbow and forearm: a case-based approach

Elbow and forearm wounds have distinct reconstructive requirements, but both require a durable and pliable solution. Pedicle, free fasciocutaneous and muscle, and distant (2-stage) flaps have a role in wound reconstruction in these unique areas. This article presents practical surgical cases as a guide to soft tissue reconstruction of the elbow and forearm.

Soft-tissue coverage of the hand: a case-based approach

Adequate soft-tissue coverage of the hand is paramount to achieve optimal aesthetic and functional results in patients with complex hand defects. In this article, the authors present four illustrative clinical cases and discuss potential reconstructive modalities. For each scenario, two surgical options are discussed: one established and one nontraditional method of reconstruction. The authors' preferred method and technical pearls for execution are presented.

Soft-tissue coverage of the elbow

The elbow requires a durable and pliable soft-tissue envelope. Injuries, infections, or tumors that result in exposed tendon, bone, or implants require expedient soft-tissue coverage. Familiarity with various options for coverage can help tailor treatment to the defect size and minimize donor-site morbidity. In this article, emphasis is placed on muscle and fasciocutaneous flaps that have been shown to have reliable vascularity and predictable outcomes.

Posterior elbow wounds: soft tissue coverage options and techniques

Many options exist for reconstruction of the posterior elbow/olecranon area following wound formation. Careful early wound management is crucial to ensure successful outcomes following reconstruction. Local and regional options are preferred methods for soft tissue coverage in this region. Common flap options include the reversed lateral arm flap, the radial forearm flap, posterior interosseous artery flap, brachioradialis muscle flap, flexor carpi ulnaris flap, and the latissimus flap. The advantages and disadvantages of these flap options are discussed in this review.

A reliable option for wrist soft tissue defects: adipofascial flaps for immediate and late reconstruction

Extensive volar injuries are common and devastating because of the long-term adhesion potency. The gliding effect of the adipose tissue is essential in preventing tendon adhesions after injury. In this study, we present the results of performing adipofascial flaps for the reconstruction of soft tissue defects following wrist trauma. The study included 15 patients. Adipofascial flaps were performed for immediate coverage of the tissue defect in 2 patients and for late adhesion-related problems in 13 patients. Flap dimensions varied from 8 × 14 to 8 × 20 cm. All but one of the flaps and skin grafts survived uneventfully. None of the patients, whether immediate or late, required another operation to address further adhesion problems. Since adipofascial flaps provide a gliding surface, they are a good choice for immediate coverage of soft tissue defects in the wrist that are not suitable for skin grafting alone as well as for late adhesion-related problems.

Three kinds of forearm flaps for hand skin defects: experience of 65 cases

INTRODUCTION

Reverse radial forearm flap has been proven reliable and effective for hand reconstruction. Here we report our experience with the use of reverse forearm flap that does not contain the radial or ulnar artery for reconstruction of hand defects in 65 cases with soft tissue defects of the hand.

METHOD

Sixty-five patients who sought surgical treatment for soft tissue defects of the hand at our hospital between January 2003 and December 2008 were included in the study. 39 cases had soft tissue defect on the dorsal aspect of the hand and 26 cases on the palmar aspect of the hand. 65 flaps were performed with the posterior interosseous artery flap in 26 cases, island flap supplied by the distal cutaneous branch of the ulnar artery in 23 cases, and the flap based on distally perforator of the radial artery in sixteen cases with the size of the flaps ranging from 5 to 12 cm in length and from 4 to 8 cm in width.

RESULTS

The distal cutaneous branch of the ulnar artery flap showed partial necrosis (25-35% of their area) in two cases. Both the donor and the recipient sites healed successfully in other cases. At 8.4 months of follow up, all patients had insensitivity in recipient sites. No patient complained of cold intolerance, pain, numbness and so on in the forearm and hand. According to the TAM criteria (the total active motion of the finger joint) and DASH (Disability of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand) score showed that postoperative functions were excellent and symptoms were minor, with no significant differences among the groups (P > 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Our results indicated that the reverse forearm flap preserving the radial and ulnar artery is a reliable and effective method to cover skin defects of the hand.

Fascial flaps for hand reconstruction

Free or pedicled fascial flaps to the hand provide an excellent reconstructive option in cases of exposed tendon, joint, or bone where soft tissue coverage is needed. They provide thin, broad, well-vascularized coverage and a gliding surface for tendons and joints. A fascial flap also avoids an unsightly donor site that results from a fasciocutaneous flap. Because of these characteristics, mobilization can be started early to avoid or minimize tendon adhesions and joint and soft tissue contractures. In this report, we discuss the technique for harvesting and insetting a pedicled reverse radial forearm adipofascial flap for a dorsal thumb defect.