A clinical study on reconstruction of small and medium sized defects of tendo Achilles and heel regions with fascio cutaneous flaps

Abstract

Background: Soft tissue defects of tendo Achillis and heel regions are difficult to reconstruct because of less vascularity and limited mobility of the skin. Most of these defects result from trauma, infection and excision of malignancy. Well vascularized tissues with sensation are needed to cover these defects as these regions are more prone for repeated friction and weight bearing. Aim was to study the versatility and applications of various flaps in the reconstruction of soft tissue defects of tendo Achillis and heel regionsMethods: This retrospective study was conducted in the Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Thanjavur Medical College, Tamil Nadu, India from 2015-2019. About 22 patients with soft tissue defects of tendo Achillis and heel regions were studied. The aetiology of the defect, size of the defect and the outcome of treatment with various flaps were evaluated.Results: Of the 22 patients 20 patients were males and 2 patients were females. The age group ranged from 12 years to 68 years. Most of the defects were due to road traffic accidents. The soft tissue defects were classified into small, medium and large sized defects based on the area of the defects. Reverse sural artery flap extended lateral calcaneal artery flap, posterior tibial artery perforator flap and lateral supra malleolar flap were the various flaps used to cover these defects.Conclusions: Fascio cutaneous flaps play a major role in the reconstruction of tendo Achillis exposed defects and heel defects. Long term follow-up with physiotherapy is essential to achieve excellent function of tendo Achillis.