Results of non-microvascular flap cover surgery for management of soft tissue injury in open fractures of leg bones

Abstract

Background: The management of open Grade IIIB fractures of tibia requires aggressive debridement, fixation and early wound coverage by flap cover surgery.Raising non microvascular local and distant flaps require less expertise.We report a prospective trial to study the different types of flap coverage surgery used in leg and the various factors affecting the final outcome. Materials & Methods: 26 patients with open grade IIIB fractures of legs were managed by serial debridement and early fixation and flap coverage.The patients were followed and bony union and soft tissue coverage were observed. Results: Patients who had undergone flap coverage within 7 days of injury had lesser duration of hospital stay, quicker unio , less complications and less number of bony and soft tissue procedures. Conclusions: Open fractures of the leg should be managed with early flap coverage and rigid fixation.Majority of wounds may be managed with local and distant non –microvascular flaps.