Reconstruction of MCP Joint or Web Space Region with Adipofascial Turnover Flap in Electric Burn Injuries

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: In many cases, electric burn can affect regional MCP joint or web space of hand, and reconstruction of these area is significant, because it can lead severe functional and aesthetical impairment of hand. Considering many respects like hand anatomy, flap characters, functional and aesthetical results, we applied reverse adipofascial flap and report the effectiveness of this method. METHODS: From June 2010 to January 2014, 21 cases of electric burn at MCP joint or web space area were reconstructed with reverse adipofascial flaps. Within a week after theses injuries, we performed a debridement of the necrotic tissue. After elevation adipofascial flap under the skin, the flap was transferred to defect site and then we performed STSG over the flap. The donor site was closed primarily. RESULTS: Complete flap survival was achieved in 75.5% of total cases. And the partial necrosis was occurred in 7 cases. There were no other complications and satisfaction of patient survey was performed by 'Likert scale, 1~5 points', the average point was 4 that meant significantly good result. CONCLUSION: Like fasciocutaneous flap or free flap, the adipofascial flap can cover soft tissue defect with exposed or injured tendon or bone because it has good vascularity. Also, compared with other flaps, it has suitable for MCP joint or web space area in respect of flap size or bulkiness and it has more aesthetical advantages. In conclusion, adipofacial flap can be considered as appropriate method to reconstruction of electrical injury at regional MCP joint area and web space.