11
Views
5
CrossRef citations to date
0
Altmetric
Original Article

Microvascular Free Flaps in the Treatment of Defects of the Lower Legs

, , &
Pages 183-186 | Received 28 Dec 1994, Published online: 08 Jul 2009
 

Abstract

Thirty-four microvascular free flaps were used to treat defects in the lower extremities after injuries. Twenty patients (74%) had severe open fractures (Gustilo type III B & C). Latissimus dorsi (n = 16) and iliac osteocutaneous (n = 7) flaps were most commonly used for coverage, and the overall failure rate was 9% (3/34). At follow up 29 of the patients (94%) had a reduced range of movement of the ankle, nine (29%) had some swelling and oedema, and 13 (42%) had occasional pain in the leg. Sixteen (52%) of the patients were limping, but 26 (84%) could walk one kilometre or more with no problems. No legs were amputated. The unemployment rate increased from 1/34 (3%) to 6/31 (19%) at follow up. Twenty-seven (87%) of our patients were satisfied with the results, despite the considerable and persistent limitation of function, and the increase in the unemployment rate.

Reprints and Corporate Permissions

Please note: Selecting permissions does not provide access to the full text of the article, please see our help page How do I view content?

To request a reprint or corporate permissions for this article, please click on the relevant link below:

Academic Permissions

Please note: Selecting permissions does not provide access to the full text of the article, please see our help page How do I view content?

Obtain permissions instantly via Rightslink by clicking on the button below:

If you are unable to obtain permissions via Rightslink, please complete and submit this Permissions form. For more information, please visit our Permissions help page.