Importance of the reconstruction of the extensor retinaculum after injury

Abstract

We reconstructed an extensive soft tissue defect of the dorsum of the left wrist after an injury using a free anterolateral thigh flap and a tendon graft, and intending to substitute the extensor retinaculum for the fascia in this flap. As a result, maximum function of the extension mechanism was restored to the reconstructed hand.

Key Words::

• Extensor retinaculum
• free anterolateral thigh flap
• reconstruction
• wrist

Declaration of interest: The authors report no conflicts of interest. The authors alone are responsible for the content and writing of the paper.