Multi-lobulated arterialized venous flaps with single bridge pedicle for one-stage repair of multiple soft tissue defects in the hand

Abstract

Objective To present a method for one-stage repair of multiple soft tissue defects in the hand with multi-lobulated arterialized venous flaps with single bridge pedicle.Methods Either Y or H pattern vein modality was harvested to form a vascular pedicle for anastomosis.This single pedicle carried a series of 2 to 4 arterialized venous flaps which were transferred to repair the multiple skin defects on one hand.Results Thirty cases with 65 flaps had complete survival of the flaps.Postoperative follow-up ranged from 6 to 15 months.The repaired fingers had good appearance.All the flaps showed excellent color and texture.The sensation of the hands in the cases with nerve repair was restored.The average two-point discrimination was 7 to 9 mm.There was only a linear scar on the donor site.There was no motor function impairment.Conclusion The clinical results are satisfactory for one-stage repair of multiple soft tissue defects in the hand with multilobulated arterialized venous flaps with single bridge pedicle. Key words: Tissue transplantation; Surgical flaps; Bridge pedicle; Soft tissue defect