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[The posterior interosseous flap in the child: 13 case reports]
J N Goubier1, C Romaña, A C Masquelet
1Service de chirurgie orthopédique et traumatologique, Urgences mains, hôpital Bichat Claude Bernard, 46, rue Henri Huchard, 75877 Paris, France.
Chirurgie De La Main
|May 1, 2002
Summary
The posterior interosseous flap is a viable option for covering limb defects in children, offering excellent flap survival rates similar to adults. This technique is effective for various pediatric injuries.
Area of Science:
- Plastic Surgery
- Pediatric Microsurgery
- Reconstructive Surgery
Background:
- The posterior interosseous flap is a reconstructive technique for skin defects in the upper limb.
- While commonly used in adults, its application in pediatric patients is less documented.
Observation:
- This study evaluated 13 posterior interosseous flaps in 12 children (ages 3-17.5 years) for defects on the hand, wrist, forearm, and elbow.
- The most common indications were burn sequelae (9 patients), followed by extravasation injuries, syndactyly, and arthrogryposis.
- Defect locations included the first web space (6 patients) and dorsal hand (5 patients).
Findings:
- The posterior interosseous flap demonstrated excellent viability in pediatric patients, with only one case of partial flap necrosis.
- Average operative time was 80 minutes.
- Vessel diameter was not a limiting factor in flap dissection for children.
Implications:
- The posterior interosseous flap is a safe and effective method for reconstructing pediatric limb defects, particularly on the dorsal hand and elbow.
- This technique offers reliable outcomes in children, comparable to those seen in adult populations.
- It expands reconstructive options for pediatric plastic surgeons managing complex limb injuries.