Paraumbilical Perforator Flap: A Good Choice for the Repair of the Deep Soft Tissue Defects in the Hand and Forearm

Abstract

Objective: Severe trauma to the hand or forearm often results in the deep soft tissue defect with the exposure of tendon or bone, which needs to be repaired by skin flaps. In this study, we introduced the use of paraumbilical perforator flap in the repair of such defects, and discussed its advantages and disadvantages. Methods: From Jan. 2006 to Dec. 2016, 14 patients with deep soft tissue defects in the hand and forearm were admitted into our clinic. The defects were caused by hot-crush injury (n=2), electrical injury (n=4), severe burn (n=2), crush injury (n=3), and avulsion injury (n=3). After admission, the patients underwent the debridement, vacuum suction, and skin graft to repair partial wound. The deep defects with the exposure of tendon and bone were repaired by paraumbilical perforator flap finally. Methods: From Jan. 2006 to Dec. 2016, 14 patients with deep soft tissue defects in the hand and forearm were admitted into our clinic. The defects were caused by hot-crush injury (n=2), electrical injury (n=4), severe burn (n=2), crush injury (n=3), and avulsion injury (n=3). After admission, the patients underwent the debridement, vacuum suction, and skin graft to repair partial wound. The deep defects with the exposure of tendon and bone were repaired by paraumbilical perforator flap finally. Conclusions: The paraumbilical perforator flap has reliable blood supply, good texture, sufficient area, and is convenient to transfer. It's an ideal choice for the repair of the deep soft tissue defect in the hand and forearm.