Flexor Carpi Ulnaris Flap for Elbow Wound Coverage

Description

In this segment, Dr. Janet Conway discusses the flexor carpi ulnaris flap, a surgical technique used to address elbow defects resulting from open fractures, trauma, or infected total elbow arthroplasties. Emphasizing the utility of locally harvested pedicle flaps, she explains the procedure, starting with an incision made from the medial epicondyle to the flexor wrist crease along the ulnar side. The dissection is straightforward, and the procedure can be performed under tourniquet. The video details the anatomy of the flexor carpi ulnaris muscle, including vascular considerations crucial for preserving blood flow during the flap harvest. Dr. Conway notes the importance of ligating certain vessels while ensuring vital proximal pedicles remain intact for effective elbow coverage. The presentation concludes with affirmations of the muscle's capacity for further manipulation and rotation to optimize its use in surgical repair.

Specialties