Early adipofascial flap coverage of deep electrical burn wounds of upper extremities

Abstract

The adipofascial flap is a useful method for treating deep electrical burn wounds requiring early definitive wound closure to preserve vital structures and function. In the past 2 years, 14 deep electrical burns of the upper extremities involving exposure of tendon, nerve, bone, or blood vessels requiring immediate vessel reconstruction were covered with an adipofascial flap. The latter was a local random turnover flap of the fascia and its overlying subcutaneous fat. All flaps were successfully elevated and applied to severe wounds in order to preserve underlying structures. There were no serious complications. Tendon gliding under the flap was found to be excellent during second reconstructive surgical procedures. The reconstructed limbs had satisfactory preservation of function.