Reconstruction of posttraumatic soft tissue defects has been revolutionized after the application of microvascular free flaps. However, standard flaps are limited in size and may not completely cover the defect. Flap expansion which is indicated in large defects with extensive soft tissue loss or shortage of donor tissue enables tension-free closure of large defects, minimal donor site morbidity, and better aesthetic outcomes.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFPlast Reconstr Surg Glob Open
November 2018
Constructing arteriovenous (AV) loops saves a crushed limb when healthy recipient vessels are unavailable at the site of injury by supporting a transferred free flap. Literature about using AV loops in the upper limb defect is scarce. We present a case with a devastating upper limb crush injury that was successfully managed with fibula flap transfer preceded by AV loop construction.
View Article and Find Full Text PDF