Reverse Posterior Interosseous Artery Flap: Early Experience in a Tertiary Hospital in Sub-Saharan Africa
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.4314/wnjms.v9i1.2Keywords:
: Posterior Interosseous Artery, Posterior Interosseous Artery Flap, Forearm Flap, Reverse Flow Flap, Hand Defects, Sub-Saharan AfricaAbstract
Introduction
The reverse posterior interosseous artery (rPIA) perforator flap is a well-established option for the reconstruction of hand defects proximal to and involving the metacarpophalangeal joints (MCPJs). Its ease of dissection, reliability, single-stage reconstruction, versatility, and facilitation of early functional rehabilitation have made it an attractive reconstructive option. We report our early experience with the rPIA perforator flap in the reconstruction of hand defects in a tertiary hospital in sub-Saharan Africa.
Methods
Demographic and relevant clinical data were retrieved retrospectively from the case records of patients who underwent reconstruction using the rPIA flap between June 2019 and May 2024. Data are presented as a case series.
Results
Four patients aged 30–45 years underwent reconstruction of various hand defects using the reverse posterior interosseous artery perforator flap over the five-year study period. Three patients were male and one was female. All defects in the male patients resulted from trauma, whereas the female patient presented with a neglected diabetic hand infection. All flaps survived, although one patient developed marginal distal flap necrosis that healed without additional surgery. No patient required secondary reconstructive procedures.
Conclusion
The reverse posterior interosseous artery flap is a feasible, reliable, and effective reconstructive option for appropriately selected hand defects in our environment. Careful patient selection, meticulous flap planning, and precise surgical dissection are essential for achieving favourable outcomes.
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