title: The use of the radial recurrent fasciocutaneous flap in interposition arthroplasty of elbow ankylosis case report and review of literature.
abstract: Elbow ankylosis and its management remain a challenge in the developing countries like Nigeria because of many factors, including the absence of elbow replacement surgery. Current operative management, which is interposition arthroplasty with fascia lata or arthrodesis in a more functional position, is commonly complicated with donor site morbidity and restricted functionality, respectively. We report the use of the regional radial recurrent fasciocutaneous flap of the arm as an interposition material for an ankylosed elbow after excision of the bone block, with no donor site morbidity and improved range of elbow motion. At 4 years postoperatively, patient is very satisfied with functionality. Additionally, this method of managing elbow ankylosis uses a vascularized and durable flap, is cheap, and has less operation time, and thus is highly recommended.
authors.affiliation: Plastic Surgery Unit, St. Francis Hospital, Asata, Enugu, Nigeria.
authors.forename: Francis Chinedu
authors.initials: FC
authors.lastname: Akpuaka
authors.forename: Chukwuemeka Benjamin
authors.initials: CB
authors.lastname: Eze
authors.forename: Udo Ego
authors.initials: UE
authors.lastname: Anyaehie
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D000844:Ankylosis / Q000209:etiology / Q000601:surgery*; D001132:Arm / Q000098:blood supply*; D001178:Arthroplasty / Q000379:methods*; D004551:Elbow Joint / Q000601:surgery*; D006801:Humans; D007049:Iatrogenic Disease; D008297:Male; D009549:Nigeria; D017534:Radial Artery; D016059:Range of Motion, Articular; D013524:Surgical Flaps; D000092464:Elbow Injuries