Soft-tissue reconstruction after meningococcal septicemia using a posterior tibial artery perforator flap in a 6-year-old boy

Abstract

Fulminant meningococcemia can have life-threatening as well as limb-threatening complications. However, unlike other types of peripheral gangrene, areas of necrosis do not follow known anatomic vascular patterns. Instead, irregular and patchy areas of necrosis are found to exist adjacent to viable tissues. With improved critical care, more patients survive the initial insult and are referred for reconstructive procedures. In this case, a 6-year boy was diagnosed with meningococcemia-induced purpura fulminans. After stabilization, he was transferred to our facility for management of open wounds of both lower extremities and the left elbow. Soft-tissue coverage was accomplished after multiple debridements using various flaps. In particular, a defect of the right midtibia was reconstructed using a posterior tibial artery perforator-based flap with excellent results. This is the first time such a flap has been reported in association with meningococcemia in a patient of this age.