Parascapular flap in post-traumatic soft-tissue loss at the limbs.
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.15417/issn.1852-7434.2018.83.3.805Keywords:
Parascapular free flap, soft tissue loss, limbsAbstract
Introduction
The aim of this study is to present the results after the use of paraescapular free flaps to cover severe soft tissue defects at the extremities.
Methods
A retrospective, descriptive study of 20 patients who underwent parascapular free flaps to cover massive combined soft tissue lesions at the extremities as a salvage procedure from 2006 to 2017 was performed. Patients age averaged 30 years (18 men, 2 women). Sites of lesions were: ten at the forearm and wrist, one at the inguinal region, seven at the leg and two at the ankle/foot.
Results
Follow-up averaged 3.6 years. Successful coverage was achieved in 17 cases. Flap size averaged 24.8 x 10.7 cm. There were six cases with neurovascular lesions that needed grafting, six cases had associated bone loss, eleven patients needed skin graft and four required tendon reconstructions. Donor area closed primarily without functional limitations in all patients. In three cases the flap was combined with a scapular flap and in three cases with a latissimus dorsi flap. Two flaps failed and the injured limb was amputated; one patient died due to massive embolism seven days after surgery.
Conclusions
Parascapular free flaps allowed salvage and reconstruction of 17 out of 20 severely injured limbs, without morbidity for the donor area. But its use is not free of complications, and a multidisciplinary approach is necessary to reduce this morbidity.
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