Reconstruction of posterior compartment of lower extremity using a functional latissimus dorsi free flap: A case...

We present an unusual case in an 8-year-old male that presented with a severe crushing injury to the right lower extremity with grade IIIB open tibia/fibula fracture and composite loss of the majority of the posterior muscle compartments and overlying skin and segmental loss of the tibial nerve. Composite reconstruction was performed with internal fixation, cable autografting of the tibial nerve, and a functional latissimus dorsi musculocutaneous flap. A motor branch of the tibial nerve to the soleus was used as the donor motor nerve. The patient achieved a bony union and began ambulating at 8 weeks postoperatively. At 24 months, the patient was running and jumping with plantar push-off. Recovery of plantar flexion was to the M5 level. Static and moving 2-point discrimination of the plantar foot was 8 mm and 6 mm, respectively. Functioning muscle transfer in a child with a severe lower extremity injury with composite tissue loss may provide soft tissue and motor-unit defect reconstruction with an acceptable functional restoration.