Abdominal Flaps in Coverage of Forearm and Hand Defects

Abstract

Background: The management of upper extremity trauma has evolved since the First World War and especially over the last three decades to the point that many extremities that would have required amputation are now routinely salvaged.
Objectives: To evaluate aetiology of acquired hand and forearm defects and to evaluate the role of abdominal flaps for coverage of hand and forearm defects.
Materials and Methods: The present study entails 50 patients having been diagnosed with forearm and hand defects needing reconstruction by flap coverage admitted to Government Medical College Jammu (J&K) over a period with effect from 1^st April 2018 to 31^st August 2019. All patients having sustained hand or forearm defects needing flap coverage were included.
Results: All of our patients had restoration of anatomy and normal function after reconstructive procedures, with 86% (n=43) patients having no complications. No major complication was encountered during intra operative or postoperative period. Minor complications (marginal necrosis, infection, donor site graft loss, hypertrophic scarring) were seen in 14% (n=7) patients, which settled with dressing and debridement.
Conclusion:  In conclusion, we recommend the usage of abdominal flaps for coverage of hand and forearm defects as a safe, durable, technically less demanding and cost-effective treatment modality.