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Reverse posterior interosseous flap in childhood: a reliable alternative for complex hand defects
1Ataturk University, Medical Faculty, Department of Plastic Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery, Erzurum, Turkey. drondertan@yahoo.com
Insights
The reverse posterior interosseous flap effectively restores complex hand defects in children. This versatile flap is safe, easy to harvest, and provides reliable coverage for pediatric upper limb reconstruction.
Area of Science:
- Plastic Surgery
- Pediatric Hand Surgery
- Microsurgery
Background:
- Complex hand defects in children present significant reconstructive challenges.
- Limited treatment options exist for pediatric hand reconstruction.
- The reverse posterior interosseous flap has shown success in adult patients.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the utility and versatility of the reverse posterior interosseous flap in pediatric hand reconstruction.
- To simplify the flap harvest technique for the pediatric population.
- To assess the safety and efficacy of this flap in children.
Main Methods:
- Ten pediatric patients with complex hand defects underwent reconstruction using the reverse posterior interosseous flap.
- Both fasciocutaneous and osteofasciocutaneous flaps were utilized.
- Surgical outcomes and bone union times were recorded.
Main Results:
- All ten flaps survived completely, demonstrating successful tissue integration.
- The average time to bone union was 3 months.
- Flap dissection was not hindered by vessel diameter, and harvest was rapid.
Conclusions:
- The reverse posterior interosseous flap is a safe and versatile option for reconstructing complex hand defects in children.
- The technique is easily and rapidly performed, with short operation times.
- This flap offers a reliable solution for pediatric upper limb coverage.
Abstract:
Restoration of complex hand defects in children is still problematic because of the limited choices of treatment. The reverse posterior interosseous flap is a versatile flap, with successful results shown in adults. The purpose of this study was to highlight the utility and versatility of the flap and to simplify the technique for ease of harvest in the pediatric age group. Complex hand defects were repaired using this flap in 10 children. Ages of the patients averaged 9.1 years. Fasciocutaneous and osteofasciocutaneous flaps were used in 7 and 3 children, respectively. All flaps survived completely. The average time of bone union was 3 months. This flap can be used with safety and versatility in coverage of children's upper limb. The diameter of the vessels is not a handicap in the flap dissection. Harvest of the flap is easy and rapid, and the operation time is short, as in adult patients.
