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In situ Transverse Rectus Abdominis Myocutaneous Flap: A Rat Model of Myocutaneous Ischemia Reperfusion Injury
Published on: June 8, 2013
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SPLIT rectus abdominis myocutaneous double free flap for extremity reconstruction
Theodore T Nyame1, Paul W Holzer, Douglas L Helm
1Division of Plastic Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA.
Microsurgery
|October 15, 2013
Summary
This study demonstrates using a single rectus abdominis muscle flap to treat bilateral lower extremity injuries. This innovative technique minimizes donor site issues and operative time for complex trauma reconstruction.
Area of Science:
- Plastic Surgery
- Reconstructive Surgery
- Microsurgery
Background:
- Simultaneous coverage of bilateral lower extremity wounds presents a reconstructive challenge.
- Minimizing donor site morbidity and operative time is crucial in complex trauma cases.
Observation:
- A single rectus abdominis muscle flap was divided into two free flaps based on distinct vascular pedicles (deep inferior epigastric and superior epigastric vessels).
- These two flaps were used to simultaneously cover bilateral Gustillo type IIIB lower extremity injuries.
Findings:
- Successful coverage of both lower extremity wounds was achieved with a single rectus abdominis muscle donor site.
- The patient achieved unassisted ambulatory status post-operatively, preserving contralateral abdominal wall integrity.
Implications:
- This technique highlights the versatility of the rectus abdominis muscle flap in managing bilateral defects.
- Utilizing the dual blood supply of the rectus abdominis muscle offers an efficient reconstructive option, reducing morbidity and operative time.
