Study on Management of Soft Tissue Defects in Upper and Lower Limbs

Restoration of soft tissue defects of upper and lower limb continue to challenge the reconstructive surgeon seeking a sage repair with minimal morbidity and preserving functional quality. In other words, one needs to start at the bottom of the reconstructive ladder and work through the failures and then plan a transfer that is indicated at the outset.

To study the management of soft tissue defects in case of upper and lower limbs.

A total of 56 cases of soft tissue defects in upper and lower limbs that were treated in the department of surgery, J J Hospital, Mumbai, during one year study period, which constitute the sample size for present study. The data were collected through standardized proforma.

The commonest site of involvement was dorsum of foot (heel) and lower 1/3^rd of leg. The most common cause of defects contributing to nearly 59% of cases, 10 had associated injuries, in which head injury and scalp were the most common injuries (5.35% each).

Majority of the defects in the upper limb are noted in hand and fingers. The majority of lower limb defects while hand and fingers are that of upper limb. Trauma is the commonest aetiological factor. In large defects, the vital areas are covered with flap and rest of the wound is skin grafted.