Free fillet flap of the hand for elbow preservation in nonreplantable forearm amputation.

The use of non-replantable amputated parts for reconstruction of the stump is a well-established technique. The use of a free fillet flap of the hand and forearm for elbow preservation in massive trauma of the upper extremity is reported in two cases. These free flaps allowed for covering and preserving a functional elbow and a more useful stump.