Y-V vascular pedicle elongation technique in island flap transplantation / 中华骨科杂志

ABSTRACT

Objective To introduce a new technique for vascular pedicle elongation in island flap transplantation, and evaluate its clinical results. Methods From February 1994 to October 2001, 16 cases were treated with island flap transplantation with Y-V vascular pedicle elongation technique. There were 10 males and 6 females with the age ranging from 19 to 45 years ( average 26.8 years). The locations of the primary injury were as follows the fingers in 6 cases, the great toe in 2 cases, the other toes in 2 cases, the knee joint in 3 cases and the proximal tibia in 1 case. The flaps vascularized by a branch of "Y" pattern bifurcation were used. Both branches of "Y" shaped vascular pedicle arising form the same main vessel trunk were dissected, then the main vessel trunk was severed at the division of the branches, the arc of "Y" bifurcations was then turned into "V" pattern, the length of pedicle was significantly elongated than the original pedicle. Results The operative procedures were smooth in the patients, and all of the flaps were successfully transferred, the elongated length of pedicle ranged from 3 cm to 12 cm, with the average length of 6 cm. The transplanted island flaps were rich in blood supply, and the vascular pedicle were not tight. No vascular crisis signs occurred, and the island flaps survived in all patients with stage I of wound healing. The quality and color of the flaps were similar to the skin of receptive area. Conclusion The lengthening technique of Y-V vascular pedicle can enlarge not only the scope of application for island flaps, but also improve the success rate of flap transplantation.