Cross-leg flap after posttraumatic osteomyelitis defect: A last resource for limb salvage

Abstract

We report the case of a patient with a tibial shaft fracture occurring through a chronic posttraumatic osteomyelitis site with significant soft tissue defect. The bone and soft tissue reconstruction procedures are described with a cross-leg fasciocutaneous flap performed as a last resource after previous rotated muscle flap partial failure. Pre-operative CT angiography, to rule outaxial vessel damage and peripherical vessel diseases, and adequate stabilization of both legs are key for a successful limb salvage.