[Use of cutaneo-fascial flaps in reconstructive surgery of the lower extremities]

Defects in the soft tissues of the lower extremities after burns and traumas in 10 patients were managed by plastic surgery using ++cutaneo-fascial grafts formed from the leg of the same or contralateral side. The operation was performed in two or three stages. ++Cutaneo-fascial grafts formed on the posteromedial or posterolateral surface of the leg may have a width:length ratio of 1:3. In cross plastics the proximal one third of the graft is folded like a tube. Inclusion of the vena saphena magna in the graft and measures aimed at prevention of separation of the fascia from the layer of fat increase the viability of the graft. Secondary deformity is significantly reduced by modelling the edges of the donor wound and closing it with an unperforated graft of split skin.