The distally pedicled peroneus brevis muscle flap anatomic studies and clinical applications

Defects in the distal third of the lower leg with bone or tendon exposure may require local or free flap reconstruction. For small and moderate lesions, the distally pedicled peroneus brevis muscle flap may be an effective procedure with less morbidity than a free tissue transfer. Six cadaveric specimens were dissected to determine the location of distal pedicles and the flap type. This flap was found to be a Type IV flap, and the location of distal pedicle was always located within 6 cm from the fibula tip. This flap was performed on 6 patients to cover defects in the distal third of the lower leg. The defect areas were the pretibial region in 2 cases, the lateral malleolus in 3 cases, and the Achilles tendon in 1 case. The peroneus brevis muscle was detached from the uppermost point of the fibula to obtain enough length to cover the defect. All flaps survived except 1 that experienced distal flap necrosis. Minor complications included skin graft failure in 2 cases. However, the final results demonstrated a smooth contour that eliminated dead space. Limited donor site morbidity was obtained in all cases. The distally peroneus brevis muscle flap therefore offers an alternative for reconstructive surgeons dealing with soft tissue defects of the lower leg.