Functional soft-tissue coverage in skeletonizing injuries of the upper extremity using the ipsilateral latissimus dorsi myocutaneous flap.

The concept of early "functional" soft-tissue coverage is demonstrated in three cases of severe skeletonizing avulsion/contusion injuries of the upper extremity, including the replantation of a "frozen" arm. According to the MESS score, all extremities would have been allocated to the amputation group. Therapeutic strategy consisted of primary repair of all neurovascular structures, serial debridements, and early definitive coverage with simultaneous restoration of the elbow flexor or extensor muscles. Flap survival was 100 percent in all patients, and the muscle strength achieved after vigorous physical therapy was rated M3 to M5. One patient was even able to return to competitive tennis.