Abstract

VERGARA-AMADOR, Enrique. The use of flaps in the reconstruction of defects of coverage in the distal leg and dorsum of the foots. Salud, Barranquilla [online]. 2013, vol.29, n.1, pp.74-82. ISSN 0120-5552.

Abstract Objectives: report the surgical possibilities that exist in the distal third of the leg and present the experience in the past 15 years with these flaps Materials and methods: During 15 years we performed different flaps like soleus flaps, reversed fasciocutaneous flaps, reversed sural flaps and some microsurgical free flaps to cover defects in the distal third of the leg and the foot Results: We reviewed 112 patients followed at least 3 months, 18 had ankle joint or foot exposure and the other had exposure tendons and / or neurovascular elements. The most used flaps were the soleus, the reversed sural and the reversed fasciocutaneous. Distal necrosis was observed in the edge of the four flaps, but not affecting the final coverage. One of the free flaps suffered a total necrosis. Discussion: Open tibial fracture required fast coverage to reduce infection and promote healing.The soleus muscle is still the main flap to cover the defects of the middle third of the tibia. This series shows that this flap is suitable for many distal leg reconstructions, often avoiding the use of a free flap. The reverse sural flap is very safe and versatile, and is a good option to cover defects on the dorsum of the foot and heel. Free flaps are of greater complexity requiring specialized staff. It is recommended to solve these problems with local flaps, muscle flaps, fasciocutaneous or neurocutaneous flaps.

Keywords : Flaps; soleus muscle; open fractures; tibial fracture.

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