Utility of Sensate Pedicled Medial Thigh Perforator Flaps in Treating Recurrent Ischial Ulcers in Individuals with Cauda Equina Lesions and Spinal Dysraphism – A Retrospective Analysis

Abstract

Abstract Background: Ischial pressure ulcers pose a significant challenge due to their high recurrence rates. It is imperative to provide or establish a reliable, well-vascularized soft-tissue cover over the ischial area to prevent recurrences. The objective of the study was to study the utility and complication rates associated with pedicled medial thigh perforator (P-MTP) sensate flap procedures in managing recurrent ischial ulcers and perineal lesions. Methods: A retrospective cohort study was conducted at Christian Medical College, Vellore, a tertiary care center in South India. This study involved 30 patients with ischial pressure sores. Of these, 13 patients underwent P-MTP flaps, while 17 underwent alternative surgeries for ulcer closure (January 2014–June 2020). Results: Among 13 patients who underwent P-MTP sensate flaps, 1 major complication (full-thickness flap necrosis) necessitated flap revision, while 6 minor complications occurred in the postoperative period. Three patients (23.08%) reported late recurrence of ulcers at the same postoperative site. In contrast, among the 17 patients who underwent the other (alternative) methods of surgical closure, 3 patients had wound dehiscence in the postoperative period. Four patients reported recurrence of ulcer at the postoperative site within 6 months and another four after 6 months of surgical closure. The surgical outcomes in sensate flap surgeries (P-MTP flaps) were comparable to other approaches for surgical closure. Sensation in the P-MTP flap transposed over the ischial region remained intact in all 13 patients at 6-month follow-up. Conclusion: The P-MTP sensate flap is a feasible and reliable treatment strategy for regional soft-tissue reconstruction in ischial and perineal lesions with postoperative complications comparable to other surgical methods for ischial ulcer closure. The sensate flap surgeries offer the additional benefit of maintaining intact sensation over the pressure injury vulnerable ischial region.