Clinical applications of free temporoparietal flaps in hand reconstruction.

Vascularized temporoparietal fascia can be used to cover deficits up to 14.0 X 12.0 cm in the hand or fingers. The tissue is thin, pliable, and has a smooth gliding surface advantageous to tendon function. Through scalp incisions, with meticulous yet straightforward dissection, this fascia can be isolated as a vascular island based on the superficial temporal artery system. Vessels are large and the anatomy is constant. Technique and clinical applications are discussed in detail.