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Engineered Vascularized Muscle Flap
Published on: January 11, 2016
The reverse posterior interosseous flap and its composite flap: experience with 201 flaps
Lai-Jin Lu1, Xu Gong, Xin-Min Lu
1Department of Hand Surgery, The First Hospital of Ji Lin University, No. 1, Xin Min Street, Chang Chun, Ji Lin 130021, PR China.
Summary
The reverse posterior interosseous flap effectively covers forearm, wrist, and hand defects. Composite flaps with tendon grafts are optimal for extensor tendon injuries, while bone grafts aid thumb reconstruction.
Area of Science:
- Plastic Surgery
- Reconstructive Surgery
- Microsurgery
Background:
- The reverse posterior interosseous flap is a versatile tool in reconstructive surgery.
- Its application in covering defects of the distal forearm, wrist, and hand has been explored.
Observation:
- A series of 201 cases utilized the reverse posterior interosseous flap for various defects.
- Fasciocutaneous flaps covered skin defects in 174 cases.
- Composite flaps were used for thumb reconstruction (11 cases) and tendon repairs (16 cases).
Findings:
- Flap survival rate was high (200/201), with minor complications like venous congestion and partial necrosis in 16 cases.
- Composite flaps with tendon grafts yielded good finger extension function.
- Bone grafts for thumb reconstruction healed well, though aesthetic and sensory outcomes were limited.
Implications:
- The reverse posterior interosseous flap is a reliable option for distal forearm, wrist, and hand skin defects.
- Composite flaps with vascularized tendon grafts are ideal for extensor tendon defects in zone III.
- Composite flaps offer a viable, though not perfect, solution for thumb reconstruction.
