Hand Allograft Saved by an Ultrathin Groin Flap

Abstract

We report a case of a young double-hand allotransplant patient who presented with a full-thickness skin necrosis of the dorsum of the left hand after vascular compromise of the allotransplantation. Considering the lack of viable dorsal tissue overlying the extensor tendons and the need for early hand rehabilitation, an ultrathin pedicled groin flap was used for the coverage. This procedure resulted in salvaging the allotransplantation, and the patient was able to successfully return to work after his surgery. To our knowledge, this is the only case of an upper extremity allotransplant salvaged by a pedicled flap.