POSTERIOR TIBIAL ARTERY FLAPS FOR LEG AND ANKLE RECONSTRUCTION

Abstract

Defects of the leg, ankle, and Achilles tendon regions still represent a tricky issue in lower limb surgery. Among the several reconstructive possibilities, local propeller perforator flaps have gained popularity in the last decades. The posterior tibial artery perforator flap is one of the most versatile flaps for reconstruction in these regions. Objectives: To explore the feasibility and therapeutic effect of the posterior tibial artery perforator flaps for coverage of defects around the ankle, heel and lower third of leg Methods: From June 2013 to March 2016 a total number of 15 cases of soft tissue defect on the leg, achilles tendon and ankle area in 13 patients managed by posterior tibial artery perforator flap inShebinElkom Teaching Hospital, SohagUniversity hospital and Menofia University Hospital Follow up was done for at least 6 months with good results. Results: A total number of 15 cases of soft tissue defect on the leg, achilles tendon and ankle area in 13 patients managed by posterior tibial artery perforator flap. All flaps healed well with good functional results and acceptable donor site morbidity Conclusions It was concluded that the distally based pedicled posterior tibial artery perforator flap was a reliable, easy, less time consuming, and versatile procedure for covering the defects around the ankle, heel, and lower third a leg. KEYWORDS: Lower limb reconstruction; achilis and calcaneal regions; Adipofascial flaps; posterior tibial perforators