Applied anatomy of the lateral tarsal artery pedicle flap on front and lateral compartment of leg and clinical application

Abstract

Objective To explore an anatomical basis for the lateral tarsal artery pedicle flap on front and lateral compartment of leg and the feasibility of repairing skin defects on forepart of feet. Methods The branches, course and anastomosis of the lateral tarsal artery, perforator of peroneal artery up external malleolus, superficial peroneal artery were studied in 20 legs of adult cadavers.The flap was designed on these grounds. 8 cases repaired by lateral tarsal artery pedicle flap on front and lateral compartment of leg, 5 cases of skin defects on dorsum of foots, 3 cases of skin defects on footplates.The area of defect on forepart of foot was 5 cm× 4 cm-cm × 5 cm. The donor sites were resurfaced with skin grafts or sutured directly. The lateral tarsal artery, perforator of peroneal artery up external malleolus, perforator of anterior tibial artery superficial peroneal artery were anastomosed each other, formed single band blood vessel axle on lateral foot, fore external malleolus, front and lateral compartment of leg. The area of flap was 6 cm × 4 cm - 10 cm × 6 cm.Results All of the flaps survived completely. All cases were followed up, followed up 6- 12 months, averaged 8 months. The color, appearance and texture of the flaps were good, without ulcer on the flap. The patients can walk freely. Conclusion The flap on front and lateral compartment of leg should be designed according to the lateral tarsal artery. Blood supply of flap was reliable, little trauma. The flap's vessel pedicle is enough long. It could repair any defect on forepart of foots. Key words: Surgical flaps; Feet; Lateral tarsal arteries; Vascular anastomosis