Emergency surgical repair of extensive soft-tissue defects in upper limb of a child, using flap graft
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Published on: December 5, 2025
Lin Li1, Tan Xiongjin, Chen Guofen
1Department of Traumatology and Orthopedic Surgery, Nanfang Hospital, First Military Medical University, Guangzhou, China. horse0510@163.com
Insights
Extensive upper limb soft-tissue defects in children are rare. A large defect was successfully repaired using a scapula latissimus dorsi flap, saving the limb from amputation.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric surgery
- Reconstructive surgery
- Microsurgery
Background:
- Extensive soft-tissue defects in a child's upper limb pose significant surgical challenges.
- Standard flap coverage often proves insufficient for large traumatic injuries.
Observation:
- A pediatric patient presented with a rare, extensive soft-tissue defect measuring 42 x 15 cm on the upper limb.
- The defect required immediate surgical intervention to prevent limb loss.
Findings:
- A scapula latissimus dorsi musculo-cutaneous flap was successfully employed for reconstruction.
- This flap provided adequate coverage for the large defect, preserving limb viability.
Implications:
- This case demonstrates the efficacy of the scapula latissimus dorsi flap in managing extensive pediatric upper limb defects.
- Successful reconstruction maintained maximal limb function, avoiding amputation and improving patient outcomes.
Abstract:
Extensive soft-tissue defects in the upper limb of a child are rare, and emergency surgical repair presents a challenge to the clinician and requires high proficiency in operating skills. The use of common regular flaps fails to completely cover the trauma. We report on a case in which the skin defect, reaching 42 x 15 cm, was repaired by the use of a scapula latissimus dorsi musculo-cutaneous flap, and the functions of the affected limb were maintained to the utmost extent. Thus the patient has escaped amputation.