Random pattern hatchet flap as a reconstructive tool in the treatment of pressure sores: clinical experience with 36 patients

Introduction Pressure sores represent a reconstructive challenge, and the high recurrence rate and need for reoperations should always be considered. Sacrifice of muscle and fascia in primary reconstruction may compromise options for future repairs. The objective of this study was to evaluate the reliability of muscle- and fascia-sparing random pattern hatchet flap reconstruction of pressure sores in different body regions. Methods From November 2017 to December 2019, 36 participants with grade III and IV pressure sores underwent random pattern hatchet flap reconstruction. Early postoperative complications and flap survival were evaluated in follow up for 6–12 months. Results Thirty-six participants with an age range of 15 to 67 years who presented with pressure sores (13 sacral, 12 ischial, 10 trochanteric, and 1 scapular) underwent surgery. Complete healing of sores was observed within 21 days of surgery in 32 cases and within 30 days for the remaining four cases. Postoperative complications (11.2%) were recorded in only four participants: two experienced partial wound dehiscence, one seroma developed in a trochanteric case, and there was one infection in a sacral sore. Conclusions Random pattern hatchet flap is a reliable tool that results in minimal complications for treatment of pressure sores of limited dimensions.

Scalp Reconstruction with Novel Unopposing Double Hatchet Flaps- A Case Series

Though there are regional and distant approaches for acquired scalp defect reconstruction, use of local flaps always have the advantage of retaining the topography of scalp. As in treatment of any other defect the choice of a local flap in scalp wound coverage is dictated by the location, size, and depth of the defect and by the availability of adjacent tissue for reconstruction. The versatile and adaptable triangular hatchet flap with a partial skin and subcutaneous bridged pedicle has great versatility. When used singularly or in pair to cover small and medium sized defects, utilising both rotation and advancement components for its movement, has the benefit of maintaining cosmetic appearance. Double hatchet flaps are used commonly in an opposing manner so as to convert a circular wound to a ‘S’ shaped suture line. In the current case series, with a description of four representative cases, authors have presented a modification of this double hatchet flap in unopposing configuration instead of an opposing pattern to cover scalp defects when the type and extent of injury affecting the scalp prevents in heaving flaps at 180 degree to each other. Authors opine that this technique adds into the ever expanding armamentarium of reconstructive surgeon and can be made use of in the aforementioned conditions wherein the standard pattern cannot be employed to cover moderate sized scalp defects.