The Y-shaped hypogastric--groin flap

Abstract

We present a technique of providing complete skin cover for total degloving injuries of the hand and distal third of the forearm. This involves the use of a Y-shaped hypogastric groin flap. The proximal portion of the Y is tubed allowing the distal portion of each flap to be applied to the dorsal and volar surfaces respectively. This technique allows complete skin cover of both surfaces and yet retains the advantages of the groin flap in that it still has a long pedicle allowing the hand to be put through a full range of motion, speeding rehabilitation.