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Groin flap for coverage of upper extremity defects in Enugu, Nigeria
K O Opara1, T O G Chukwuanukwu, I S Ogbonnaya
1Department of Burns, Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, National Orthopaedic Hospital, Enugu, Nigeria.
Background:
Extensive tissue loss of the hand has remained a big challenge to the Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon. The objective of this study is to review the use of pedicle groin flap for coverage of distal forearm and hand defects in our centre, and to find out problems of using the flap and make suggestions for improvement.
Method:
This is a retrospective study done using case records of patients treated with pedicle groin flaps for upper extremity defects at the National Orthopaedic Hospital Enugu from January 1999 to December 2004 (six year period). Information on biodata, clinical presentation, treatment, complications and outcome was extracted and analyzed using descriptive statistics.
Results:
Thirteen (13) patient's case files met the inclusion criteria and were analyzed. There were seven (7) males and six (6) females with mean age ranges between 9 years and 42 years. Four (4) had distal forearm and nine (9) hand wound coverage's. Flap survival was very good to excellent in all cases and the outcome quite satisfactory.
Conclusion:
Use of pedicle groin flap for coverage of defects of the hand and distal forearm remains a very valuable treatment option in our environment.