Concurrent Use of a Medial Saphenous Fasciocutaneous Free Tissue Flap and External Skeletal Fixation for Treatment of a Distal Antebrachial Injury in a Dog

Objective - To report the surgical management of a traumatic distal antebrachial wound using a medial saphenous fasciocutaneous free tissue flap and a type I external skeletal fixator (ESF). Study Design - Case report. Animals - A 7-year-old spayed, female Labrador retriever. Results - Wound coverage and pancarpal arthrodesis were accomplished during a single anesthetic episode using a medial saphenous fasciocutaneous free tissue flap and type I ESF. A second surgical procedure was performed to expedite healing of part of the original wound that was initially left to heal by second intention. Conclusions - Free tissue transfer can be used in combination with an ESF for repair of distal antebrachial wounds, allowing orthopedic repair and soft tissue coverage in a single anesthetic episode. Clinical Relevance - Concurrent use of free tissue transfer and carpal arthrodesis with an ESF could be used for repair of complex antebrachial wounds without need for multiple procedures, extended hospitalization, and increased cost.