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Superficial sural artery flap--a study in 40 cases.
Sherine S Raveendran1, D Perera, T Happuharachchi
1Plastic and Reconstructive Surgical Unit, National Hospital of Sri Lanka, Colombo, Sri Lanka. subodhini@hotmail.com
British Journal of Plastic Surgery
|March 10, 2004
Summary
The superficial sural artery flap is a reliable option for reconstructing soft tissue defects in the lower leg and foot. This versatile flap requires minimal expertise and offers excellent coverage with minimal complications.
Area of Science:
- Plastic Surgery
- Reconstructive Surgery
- Lower Limb Reconstruction
Background:
- Soft tissue defects in the distal lower limb and proximal foot pose significant reconstructive challenges.
- The superficial sural artery flap is a well-documented but underutilized option for such defects.
Purpose of the Study:
- To reintroduce and evaluate the efficacy of the distally based superficial sural artery flap for soft tissue defects.
- To highlight the flap's versatility, wide arc of rotation, and minimal expertise requirement.
Main Methods:
- A retrospective review of 40 patients treated with superficial sural artery flaps for lower leg soft tissue defects.
- Flaps were utilized as either long pedicled or islanded flaps.
- Patient age ranged from 4 to 75 years.
Main Results:
- The superficial sural artery flap demonstrated a wide arc of rotation (90-180 degrees).
- Minimal flap loss was observed in the majority of cases.
- The flap proved effective in treating diverse soft tissue defects.
Conclusions:
- The distally based superficial sural artery flap is a safe and reliable method for reconstructing large soft tissue defects.
- This flap is a valuable, versatile option for distal lower limb and proximal foot reconstruction.
- Minimal expertise required makes it an accessible reconstructive technique.