The Journal of hand surgery
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Since 1972, the groin flap has been used as an excellent source of skin coverage for the hand. This flap can incorporate the underlying iliac crest to provide both soft tissue and vascularized bone for the reconstruction of complex hand injuries. ⋯ Bony union was rapid and thumb stability was excellent in all patients 3 months after initial reconstruction. The advantages of the osteocutaneous flap include the ability to: (1) supply vascularized bone to what is frequently a poor recipient bed for a bone graft, (2) reconstruct both soft tissue and bony defects simultaneously, and (3) be used in facilities without capability for microvascular surgery.