Upper extremity reconstruction after a catastrophic injury from burning

Abstract

INTRODUCTION. Catastrophic injuries of the upper limb have been devastating injuries that affected many essential structures such as the hand, forearm, arm and adjacent organs, which almost always lead to a significant disability, directly or through the psychosocial impact that is related to the absence or atrophy of members. OBJECTIVE. Prove the versatility and effectiveness of the use of the paraescapular flap to cover severe post-traumatic defects in a catastrophic upper limb. As well as, present results of a digital amputation that preserves the greatest functionality of the hand. CLINICAL CASE. A 37 year old male patient, who suffered a third degree high voltage electrical burn of 30,0% of total body surface area. Treatment was performed with paracapular flap for axillary defect and functional digital amputation in hands. RESULTS. By the fifth postoperative month, all movements preserved in the upper extremity without retraction at the axillary level were evident. After the rehabilitation it was possible to keep in the hands a great percentage of prehensile strength and fine motor skills. DISCUSSION. The paraescapular flap allowed an early and definitive reconstruction of the extensive defect, improving the functionality of the right upper extremity. The digital amputation preserved a maximum functional length, allowing a quick healing of the wounds, reducing costs and hospital stay. CONCLUSION. The paraescapular flap provided coverage for shoulder and axilla defects, which allowed recovery of all the angles of mobility of the affected limb, without retraction of the skin. The functional amputation of rays in the hand allowed conserving prehensile and motor strength, improving the quality of life.