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Distally-based neurofasciocutaneous flaps in electrical burns
Serkan Yildirim1, Mithat Akan, Kaan Gideroglu
1Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Kartal Dr. Lütfü Kirdar Education and Research Hospital, Göztepe, Istanbul, Turkey. serk99@hotmail.com
Summary
Distally-based neurocutaneous flaps are effective for lower extremity reconstruction in electrical burn patients. Modifications to flap pedicle width and delayed harvesting improved flap survival in high-risk cases.
Area of Science:
- Plastic Surgery
- Burn Reconstruction
- Microsurgery
Background:
- Distally-based neurocutaneous flaps are established for lower extremity reconstruction.
- Electrical burn injuries often involve sub-clinical vascular damage, complicating wound healing.
- Reconstruction of deep electrical burn wounds requires robust flap coverage.
Observation:
- This study evaluated distally-based sural and saphenous neurocutaneous flaps in 14 electrical burn patients.
- Complete flap survival was achieved in 12 patients.
- Two patients experienced partial flap necrosis.
Findings:
- Modified flap techniques, including increased pedicle width (3.5-5cm) and delayed harvesting, were employed in cases of partial necrosis.
- These modifications are believed to enhance flap viability.
- The study suggests these modifications positively impact flap circulation in high-risk patients.
Implications:
- The findings suggest improved surgical strategies for electrical burn wound reconstruction.
- Enhanced flap viability can lead to better patient outcomes in complex lower extremity injuries.
- These modifications may become a standard of care for high-risk burn patients requiring flap coverage.