Traumatic soft-tissue defects of the extremities. Implications and treatment guidelines.

The presence of traumatic soft-tissue defects in the extremity indicates serious damage that may compromise the systems of motion, circulation or sensibility and therefore jeopardize functional rehabilitation. This overview highlights the significance and the various causes of soft-tissue defects, of which several types may be distinguished. Principles for the selection of various flap procedures are outlined, in accordance with the need for elevation and early motion therapy. The requirements placed on flap tissue are described, such as surface characteristics, ability to restore sensibility, cosmesis, capacity to fill voids in the depth of defects and revascularization of adjacent areas.