Objective: To investigate the applied anatomy of the proximal posterior interrosseous artery perforator flap (PIAP) and report the clinical results of repairing the soft tissue defects in hands.
Methods: Between September 2007 and January 2011, 21 patients with 24 soft tissue defects in hands were repaired with the free proximal PIAP flap transplantation. The size of the flaps ranged from 2.0 cm x 1.5cm to 7cm x 5cm. The longest length of these flaps was 9 cm. 9 flaps were dissected with one additional superficial vein to anastomose with the superficial vein at the recipient sites.
Results: 19 flaps survived completely. Bubbles and violet color happened in 4 flaps which survived finally after partial suture removal. Flap necrosis occurred in one flap. The clinical results were satisfactory after 6-25 months of following-up, and the scars at the donor sites were not obvious.
Conclusions: The free PIAP flaps have constant, reliable blood supply, and good texture. It is a good option for repairing soft-tissue defects in the hands.