[Microsurgical coverage of proximal amputation of the forearm. Functional value of preservation of the elbow joint]

The authors reported three traumatic cases of below-elbow amputation. The proximal squeleton of the forearm was bare-exposed and the replantation was not done due to the mechanism of the injury. To preserve the function of the elbow joint which the main components were safe, the soft tissue coverage was realized by a musculocutaneous latissimus dorsi free flap in each case. A body-powered forearm prosthesis was adapted for the three patients who were able to return to an adapted job in an average time of 8 months. The importance of the preservation of the elbow joint to improve the function in upper limb amputees is discussed.