ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND: Reconstruction of soft tissue defects in the hand need an early, single stage and well vascularised cover to achieve the best functional result. Usually a full thickness graft is required since vital structures like tendons, bones and joints are exposed and often there is need for secondary reconstruction. METHODS: We managed 12 cases of complex defects over the hand in the last 2 years with the posterior interosseous artery flap. RESULTS: In 5 cases the defect was due to blast injury and in 4 because of crush injury. Males predominated in the ratio of 5:1. The defect was most often in the 1(st) web space and the largest flap was 11×8 cm. In all but one case the donor site was covered by split skin graft, which settled well. 2 patients had superficial flap necrosis needing debridement and skin graft. CONCLUSION: Flap based on reverse flow in the posterior interosseous artery is a versatile and reliable source for full thickness cover of complex soft tissue defects in the hand.
ABSTRACT
Burns is a preventable tragedy, which is unfortunately still common in India. The possibility of disfigurement, death and emotional trauma as a result of burns is a shattering experience to the victim as well as his/her family. Proper initial management can salvage many such unfortunate victims. Burns patients require close monitoring, barrier nursing and sympathetic attitude of medical and paramedical staff in a burns ICU to have a reasonable chance of survival.
