The posterior interosseous flap.

The posterior interosseous flap is a new fasciocutaneous flap designed on the postero-lateral aspect of the forearm. The anatomical study was carried on seventy dissections of fresh specimens. The flap is supplied by the posterior interosseous artery which delivers several cutaneous branches. The posterior interosseous flap can be used as a proximally based pedicled flap or as a distally based one thanks to the anastomosis at the level of the wrist, with the anterior interosseous artery and with the dorsal arch of the carpus. The flap can be employed as a fascial flap. Eight clinical cases have been performed to cover soft tissues defects of elbow, wrist and hand.