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Anatomy of upper extremity skin flaps
1Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University at Buffalo School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Millard Fillmore Health System, New York, USA.
Hand Clinics
|May 1, 1997
Summary
Understanding upper extremity skin flap design is crucial for surgical success. Proper flap selection based on vascular anatomy and post-operative care significantly improves flap survival rates.
Area of Science:
- Plastic Surgery
- Vascular Anatomy
- Surgical Techniques
Background:
- Skin flap design relies on donor site anatomy and blood flow.
- Skin flaps are classified by blood supply: direct cutaneous, musculocutaneous, and septocutaneous.
- The septocutaneous vascular system dominates the upper extremity, making it a primary source for useful flaps.
Purpose of the Study:
- To emphasize the importance of understanding vascular anatomy in upper extremity flap design.
- To highlight the role of hemodynamics in flap elevation and survival.
- To provide insights into optimizing flap design and postoperative care for improved outcomes.
Main Methods:
- Review of vascular anatomy and hemodynamics of upper extremity donor sites.
- Classification of skin flaps based on their vascular supply.
- Analysis of regulatory factors influencing cutaneous circulation.
Main Results:
- The septocutaneous vascular system is predominant in the upper extremity.
- Knowledge of cutaneous circulation regulation is vital for predicting hemodynamic changes during flap elevation.
- Careful flap design and appropriate postoperative management are key to flap survival.
Conclusions:
- Successful upper extremity skin flap design hinges on a thorough understanding of vascular anatomy and hemodynamics.
- The septocutaneous vascular system is the most utilized for flap creation in this region.
- Optimizing flap design and postoperative care significantly enhances flap survival rates.