Microvascular reconstruction for close-range gunshot injuries to the distal forearm

Three patients with compound defects in the distal forearm resulting from close-range gunshot injuries were treated with a free microvascular composite groin flap. The composite flap, which consisted of groin skin, the iliac crest, and abdominal muscles, was used to cover the exposed nerves, tendons, and vessels in one stage. The iliac crest replaced the segmental radial and ulnar defects, and the attached muscles were placed deep to the tendons to provide a gliding surface and to prevent adhesions to the bone. "Sandwiching" the damaged nerves and tendons between highly vascular soft tissue has the potential to improve tendon excursion, nerve regeneration, and ultimately the functional result in the hand. This microvascular reconstruction is presented as an alternative to conventional staged skin flap transfer and cancellous bone grafting.