Extensor digitorum brevis muscle flap: modified approach preserving extensor retinaculum.

Area of Science:

• Plastic Surgery
• Reconstructive Surgery
• Orthopedic Surgery

Background:

• Reconstructing defects of the distal leg and foot presents challenges.
• The extensor digitorum brevis muscle flap is a potential solution.

Observation:

• Ten patients with foot and ankle defects underwent reconstruction using this flap.
• Both proximally and distally based flaps were utilized.

Findings:

• The flap demonstrated a 90% success rate with minimal donor site complications.
• Patients experienced a mean return to work period of 1.5 months.
• Two patients reported first web hypoesthesia.

Implications:

• The extensor digitorum brevis flap is an effective local option for small defects.
• Its ease of dissection and reliable vascularity are key advantages.
• Careful technique can mitigate donor site issues.