Arch Plast Surg.  2017 Mar;44(2):117-123. 10.5999/aps.2017.44.2.117.

Soft Tissue Reconstruction of Complete Circumferential Defects of the Upper Extremity

• Ng ZY
• Tan SS
• Lellouch A
• Cetrulo CL
• Chim HW

• KMID: 2373086
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.5999/aps.2017.44.2.117

Abstract

BACKGROUND
Upper extremity soft tissue defects with complete circumferential involvement are not common. Coupled with the unique anatomy of the upper extremity, the underlying etiology of such circumferential soft tissue defects represent additional reconstructive challenges that require treatment to be tailored to both the patient and the wound. The aim of this study is to review the various options for soft tissue reconstruction of complete circumferential defects in the upper extremity.
METHODS
A literature review of PubMed and MEDLINE up to December 2016 was performed. The current study focuses on forearm and arm defects from the level at or proximal to the wrist and were assessed based on Tajima's classification (J Trauma 1974). Data reviewed for analysis included patient demographics, causality, defect size, reconstructive technique(s) employed, and postoperative follow-up and functional outcomes (when available).
RESULTS
In accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines, 14 unique articles were identified for a total of 50 patients (mean=28.1 years). Underlying etiologies varied from extensive thermal or electrical burns to high impact trauma leading to degloving or avulsion, crush injuries, or even occur iatrogenically after tumor extirpation or extensive debridement. Treatment options ranged from the application of negative pressure wound dressings to the opposite end of the spectrum in hand transplantation.
CONCLUSIONS
With the evolution of reconstructive techniques over time, the extent of functional and aesthetic rehabilitation of these complex upper extremity injuries has also improved. The proposed management algorithm comprehensively addresses the inherent challenges associated with these complex cases.

Keyword

Upper extremity; Reconstructive surgical procedures; Soft tissue injuries

MeSH Terms

Arm
Bandages
Burns
Classification
Debridement
Demography
Follow-Up Studies
Forearm
Hand Transplantation
Humans
Reconstructive Surgical Procedures
Rehabilitation
Soft Tissue Injuries
Upper Extremity*
Wounds and Injuries
Wrist