Dorsal Ulnar Artery Fasciocutaneous Flap in Reconstruction of Soft Tissue Defects of the Hand - A Case Series

Surya Rao Rao Venkata Mahipathy; Alagar Raja Durairaj; Narayanamurthy Sundaramurthy; Anand Prasath Jayachandiran

Volume : IX, Issue : VIII, August - 2020

Dorsal Ulnar Artery Fasciocutaneous Flap in Reconstruction of Soft Tissue Defects of the Hand - A Case Series

Surya Rao Rao Venkata Mahipathy, Alagar Raja Durairaj, Narayanamurthy Sundaramurthy, Anand Prasath Jayachandiran

Abstract :

Soft tissue defects of hand with exposed structures such as tendons, joints, nerves and bone present a challenging problem to the reconstructive surgeon. These defects, both post–traumatic and post–infective require early flap cover to protect underlying vital structures, preserve hand functions and to allow for early rehabilitation. Becker and Gilbert first described flap based on the dorsal anch of the ulnar artery for defects around the wrist. We evaluated the use of a dorsal ulnar artery flap in five patients with soft tissue defects of hand. Four flaps survived completely, with marginal necrosis in one flap which settled conservatively. Donor areas which were skin grafted, healed with acceptable cosmetic results. The dorsal ulnar artery flap is a reliable, easy and a single–stage procedure for reconstructing soft tissue defects of the hand.