Technique of harvest of the free vascularized fibula

Vascularized free fibula transfer is an attractive option for the treatment of segmental bone defects because of faster union rates, fewer fatigue fractures, rapid hypertrophy, and less resorption compared with nonvascularized bone transfer. It is classically indicated for those patients with segmental bone defects >6 to 8 cm. The presence of several peroneal artery fasciocutaneous perforators also makes the inclusion of a skin paddle possible. Although rare, the surgeon must be aware of possible complications associated with this procedure. A careful operative technique is necessary for obtaining excellent surgical outcomes.