Long-term follow-up of modified shunt-restricted instep arterialized venous flap for reconstruction of hand defects.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Instep arterialized venous flaps (iAVF) are suitable for reconstructing soft tissue defects of the hand while concurrently fulfilling aesthetic requirements. However, iAVF still face challenges such as unstable survival rates and swelling. Thus, this study aimed to propose a new strategy for iAVF, namely a modified shunt-restricted iAVF, for the reconstruction of hand defects.

Methods

This retrospective study included 16 patients who underwent reconstruction of hand defects using the modified iAVF approach. All flaps were designed with antegrade flow, and the direct communicating branches between the afferent and efferent veins of the flap were ligated by sutures. The donor site of the flap was repaired by tension-reduction suture or full-thickness skin graft. Pat

SUBMITTER: Chen W 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12399605 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature