Reconstruction of distal lower extremities defect using the free peroneal artery perforator vessel based flap.

Abstract

Soft tissue defects of the distal lower extremities are challenging. The purpose of this paper is to present our experiences with the free peroneal artery perforator flap for the reconstruction of soft tissue defects of the distal lower extremity. Nine free peroneal artery perforator flaps were used to reconstruct soft tissue defects of the lower extremities between April 2006 and October 2011. All flaps were used for distal leg and foot reconstruction. Peroneal artery perforator flaps ranged in size from 2 cm × 4 cm to 6 cm × 12 cm. The length of the vascular pedicle ranged from 2 to 6 cm. Recipient vessels were: medial plantar vessels in seven cases, the dorsalis pedis vessel in one, metatarsal vessel in one. All flaps survived completely, a success rate of 100%. Advantages of this flap are that there is no need to sacrifice any main artery in the lower leg, and minimal morbidity at the donor site. This free perforator flap may be useful for patients with small to medium soft tissue defects of the distal lower extremities and feet.