Background. The combination of first webspace and dorsal hand contracture is a challenging reconstructive problem. Complete soft tissue release results in a large wraparound defect that spans the radial side of the palm, first webspace, and the transverse dimension of the entire dorsal hand. In these situations local tissue is often compromised, and free flap reconstruction is commonly indicated. However, in cases where patients are unwilling or unable to undergo microsurgical reconstruction, regional tissue transfer provides an alternative reconstructive strategy. This case report describes a series of 3 patients with severe combined contractures of the first webspace and dorsal hand. Each patient was relatively contraindicated for local or free tissue transfer and was treated with 2-stage selective contracture release with progressive dorsal then volar defect creation and coverage using a pedicled groin flap. This operation requires thoughtful planning during soft tissue release to coordinate staged, dorsal then volar, defect creation with the progressive liberation of the groin flap at its distal and then proximal ends.
Keywords: dorsal hand contracture; first webspace contracture; groin flap; regional flap; thumb position.
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