Reconstruction of soft-tissue defects in foot using free graft of perforator flap

Abstract

Objective To discuss the clinical effects of reconstruction of soft-tissue defects in foot using free graft of perforator flap. Methods From March 2006 to December 2009, 4 kinds of free graft of perforator flap form the lower extremity were used for reconstruction of soft-tissue defects in foot in 20 cases.They were 15 males and 5 females. Their ages ranged from 18 to 61 years old, with an average of 28. 5 years.Seven cases had defects in the left foot and 13 in the right. The defects were located in the dorsal foot in 12cases, the heel in 5 and ankle in 3. Five were reconstructed with anterolateral thigh perforator flaps, 7 with anteromedial thigh perforator flaps, 5 with superficial peroneal artery perforator flaps and 3 with peroneal artery perforator flaps. The defect areas ranged from 2.0 cm × 3.5 cm to 12. 0 cm × 18. 0 cm. Results All the flaps survived. Intraoperative vascular crisis occurred in 2 cases but the blood flow was restored after timely treatment. Follow-ups of 3 to 6 months showed all the flaps had a good appearance. Thirteen cases restored a good protective sensibility after nerve anastomosis. The donor sites healed well without sacrifice of their normal function. Conclusion Free graft of perforator flap is an effective method to reconstruct soft-tissue defects in foot. Key words: Foot injuries; Surgical flaps; Skin transplantation