Use of a subcutaneous pedicle ulnar flap to cover skin defects around the wrist

Abstract

A subcutaneous pedicle ulnar flap used to cover a skin defect around the wrist is reported. Unlike the standard ulnar flap, which is isolated around the dorsal branch of the ulnar artery and its associated veins, this flap is based on the ascending branch of the dorsal branch of the ulnar artery more proximally to obtain a longer vascular pedicle. A subcutaneous pedicle flap that contained the ascending branch, its associated veins, and a superficial vein was obtained. The disadvantages of the standard ulnar flap can be overcome by this design, which provides greater mobility, preserves the healthy skin between the rotation point and the defect, and eliminates contour abnormalities.