Abstract
Objective To explore an anatomical basis for the medial plantar skin flaps and its clinical value of repairing heel defects. Methods The origin,branches,course and distribution of the medial plantar artery and the nerve of flaps were studied in 10 adult cadavers(20 legs).8 cases of homonymy and opposite side heel soft tissue defects with medial plantar skin flaps,aged 10-42 years.Free skin transplantation on the donors. Results The length of media plantar artery deep branch was (8.9±0.2)cm,gives off 3-5 cutaneous branches.Medial plantar nerve have 5-8 branches.it inchdes 3～5cutaneous branches distribute plantar skin and 2-4 plantar digital nerves distribute toes skin.The area of flaps was 4.0 cm×3.0 cm-6.0 cm×5.0 cm in the 8 flaps. 6 pedicle skin flaps were transfenrred to repair homonymy side heel soft tissue defects.2 opposite side heel soft tissue defects were repaired by 2 free flaps.All the flaps were survived. All patients were followed up one months to one year,the function and appearance of the flaps were good.Conclusion The flaps have less anatomic variation or sacrificing major vessels but have reliable blood supply and can restore good sensation after operation.They are ideal flaps for repairing heel soft tissue defects. Key words: Surgical flap; Medial plantar artery; Medial plantar skin flaps; Heel; Microsurgery
Published Version
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