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Posttraumatic upper extremity wound coverage utilizing the extended deep inferior epigastric flap
S H Seitchik1, M S Granick, M P Solomon
1Department of Surgery, Hahnemann University, Philadelphia, PA.
Annals of Plastic Surgery
|May 1, 1992
Summary
The extended deep inferior epigastric artery (DIEA) flap offers an effective solution for traumatic upper extremity wounds. This versatile flap ensures successful wound healing and is a valuable reconstructive option for elbow and forearm defects.
Area of Science:
- Plastic Surgery
- Reconstructive Surgery
- Microsurgery
Background:
- Traumatic mid upper extremity wounds present unique reconstructive challenges.
- Conventional flaps may not always be suitable for complex upper extremity defects.
- The deep inferior epigastric artery (DIEA) flap is a potential alternative for reconstruction.
Observation:
- Four patients with traumatic mid upper extremity wounds were treated using the extended DIEA flap.
- Preoperative considerations in these cases necessitated a novel approach to reconstruction.
- The DIEA flap is based on an axial vascular watershed, providing a long, thin, and well-vascularized skin paddle.
Findings:
- The extended DIEA flap proved highly effective in addressing the reconstructive needs of all four patients.
- The flap is technically simple to elevate and demonstrated significant versatility.
- Complete flap survival and successful wound healing were achieved in all cases.
Implications:
- The extended DIEA flap is a valuable and reliable reconstructive option for elbow and forearm defects.
- This technique expands the armamentarium for managing complex upper extremity trauma.
- Further research may explore the long-term outcomes and broader applications of the DIEA flap in upper extremity reconstruction.