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Updated: Jul 29, 2026
In situ Transverse Rectus Abdominis Myocutaneous Flap: A Rat Model of Myocutaneous Ischemia Reperfusion Injury
Published on: June 8, 2013
[Defect coverage of the hand with the free serratus fascial flap]
A Flügel1, C Heitmann, A Kehrer
1Klinik für Hand-, Plastische und Rekonstruktive Chirurgie -- Schwerbrandverletztenzentrum, Berufsgenossenschaftliche Unfallklinik Ludwigshafen.
Purpose:
Coverage of exposed functional structures such as tendons, bones, vessels or nerves at the dorsal and palmar surface of the hand requires thin, supple tissue to provide adequate range of motion and a satisfying aesthetic result. Free fascial flaps are possible alternatives to cutaneous, fasciocutaneous and muscle flaps. The purpose of this retrospective study was to evaluate the functional and aesthetic results after coverage of the hand with free serratus fascial flaps in our department.
Method And Clinical Material:
From 1994 to 2002, ten patients underwent free fascial flap coverage of the hand with eleven serratus fascial flaps. Six patients could be re-examined and answered a questionnaire about their satisfaction with the functional and aesthetic results. The mean follow-up was after 34 months.
Results:
Average active range of motion of the hand, functional improvement and the aesthetic result were satisfying in all follow-up patients. No secondary debulking or other contouring procedures were required.
Conclusion:
We recommend the use of free serratus fascial flaps as a valuable alternative to fasciocutaneous or muscle flaps since the functional results are excellent; no additional procedures were necessary and the aesthetical results are appealing.
