[Successful groin flap for dorsal hand defect in elderly patient with comorbidity].

Abstract

The pedicled groin flap is a valuable and versatile option for covering wounds on the hand and distal forearm, offering predictable results with a procedure that is less complex and time-consuming than free-tissue transfer. Contrary to the common belief that the groin flap should be avoided in elderly patients due to the risk of shoulder stiffness, we observed satisfactory outcomes in a 93-year-old woman with comorbidities of type 2 DM, Arterial hypertension and rheumatoid arthritis and status post Hip TEP on both sides in 2009 and 2007. Immediate shoulder mobilization and continued physical therapy during flap maturation and pedicle division were essential to achieve positive results.