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Updated: May 12, 2026
08:18
Engineered Vascularized Muscle Flap
Published on: January 11, 2016
The gradual expansion muscle flap
Michael J Beltran1, James A Blair, Christopher R Rathbone
1*Department of Orthopaedics and Rehabilitation, San Antonio Military Medical Center, San Antonio, TX; and †United States Army Institute of Surgical Research, San Antonio, TX.
Journal of Orthopaedic Trauma
|April 11, 2013
Summary
This study introduces a novel surgical technique for high-energy open tibia fractures, avoiding free tissue transfer. The method uses acute shortening, muscle flap coverage, and external fixation for bone and soft tissue reconstruction.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Trauma Surgery
- Reconstructive Surgery
Background:
- High-energy open tibia fractures present significant challenges including bone comminution, soft tissue loss, and infection.
- Existing treatments for severe soft tissue loss and bone defects are varied and often complex.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present a novel surgical technique for treating high-energy type IIIB open tibia fractures.
- To demonstrate the efficacy of this technique in avoiding free tissue transfer.
Main Methods:
- Acute tibial shortening and angulation combined with rotational muscle flap coverage and split-thickness skin grafting.
- Application of circular external fixation for distraction histiogenesis to correct osseous deformity and soft tissue defects.
Main Results:
- The described technique successfully addressed both bone and soft tissue defects in a case series of type IIIB open tibia fractures.
- Avoidance of free tissue transfer was achieved, simplifying the reconstructive process.
Conclusions:
- This novel approach offers a viable alternative for managing complex open tibia fractures, potentially reducing morbidity.
- The technique combines acute shortening, flap coverage, and distraction osteogenesis for effective limb salvage.
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