Fascio-cutaneous cross-arm flaps in hand reconstruction

Experience is reported in the use of eight fascio-cutaneous cross-arm and forearm flaps in three patients. This has proved to be a reliable and satisfactory means of providing skin cover in reconstruction of the hand, giving flaps of a length to breadth ratio of at least two to one. The method was particularly useful where multiple defects were encountered, although in one case where a single defect required reconstruction, the ability to tube the pedicle of the flap allowed full mobility of the injured hand. Primary wound healing was achieved in all cases, and the patients have progressed to a satisfactory functional result. The advantages and disadvantages of this flap are discussed and compared with other established methods of reconstruction.