A flap is a transfer of tissue used to reconstruct a damaged area. It may include skin, fat, muscle, or bone, depending on the structures to be replaced and the functional requirements of the hand.
Local pedicled flaps are taken from an area close to the defect, such as an adjacent finger, the palm, or the forearm. They remain partially attached to their original site, preserving their natural blood supply while covering the tissue loss.
Free flaps are harvested from a distant site, such as the thigh, back, or the opposite arm. They are then transferred to the hand and reconnected to the recipient site using microsurgery, ensuring the survival of the transplanted tissue.
The choice of flap depends on several factors, including:
- The extent of tissue loss
- The type of missing tissues
- The specific functional needs of the hand
Each reconstruction is therefore tailored to achieve the best possible outcome.
Hand reconstruction using flaps aims to restore both function and appearance. This approach improves mobility, grip, and patient comfort, while also addressing aesthetic considerations whenever possible.