Elective spare parts free flap-calcaneal fillet of foot flap.

Abstract

Severe lower limb trauma with significant soft tissue injury can be managed with reconstruction or, if this is impossible, amputation. If amputation is considered, below-knee amputation preserving limb length is optimal for long-term functional outcome. At times, soft tissue/bony injury can limit the ability to preserve limb length, particularly with proximal tibial injuries. We present a case of elective below-knee amputation where leg length and adequate soft tissue coverage was only possible by using an osteocutaneous fillet of foot and lower leg spare parts free flap, maintaining the tibial nerve pedicle for sensation and the posterior tibial artery for vascularity of the nerve. The procedure was technically challenging and required follow-up debulking operations. However, the technique provided the significant advantage of immediate sensation of robust glabrous distal stump cover and optimising leg length to enhance functional outcome.