Analysis of challenging reconstruction of soft tissue defects around the knee joint and evolving a treatment algorithm

Abstract

<p class="abstract"><strong>Background:</strong> The soft tissue defects around knee joint give a challenging experience to reconstruct. There are various ways to reconstruct soft tissue defects around knee joint. In this study, a reconstructive algorithm is formed for soft tissue defect around knee joint using pedicled flaps.</p><p class="abstract"><strong>Methods:</strong> Reconstructive procedures were done for 15 cases of soft tissue defects around knee joints following different etiologies during the tenure of January 2017 to December 2018 in the Department of Burns, Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Kilpauk Medical College, Chennai.<strong></strong></p><p class="abstract"><strong>Results:</strong> Soft tissue defects around knee joint need flap to have a durable cover, to protect the underlying structures – bones, vessels, tendon, and to enable ease of free movement of knee joint without producing contracture. There are various etiologies for soft tissue defects around knee joint-post traumatic injuries, post total knee replacement, post electric burn injuries, post burn scar contracture release of knee joint. 15 cases of soft tissue defects around knee joint were reconstructed using various pedicled flaps-medial thigh rotation flap, gastrocnemius muscle and myocutaneous flap, reverse anterolateral thigh flap, propeller flap. In this retrospective study, reconstructive algorithm for soft tissue defects around knee joint is provided.</p><p class="abstract"><strong>Conclusions:</strong> The reconstruction of soft tissue defects around knee joint is difficult one. In this study, a simple reconstructive algorithm is provided based on the experience in Department of Burns, Plastic, and Reconstructive Surgery, Kilpauk Medical College, Chennai.</p>