[Flap resection and split-thickness skin transplantation as a method of flap correction of the hand]

Hand injuries involving extensive skin loss and soft-tissue destruction in depth will require flap coverage. Once successful grafting has taken place, however, the thickness of the flap often necessitates further surgical intervention for reasons of good function and cosmesis. A surgical regime is described in which the healed flap is partially removed, leaving a healthy surface upon which split-thickness grafts are applied. During the years 1991 and 1992, 21 patients have been treated according to this method in our department. The technique and results of 16 of these 21 cases are described.