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Perforator Flaps for Reconstruction of Lower Limb Defects
Mir Yasir1, Adil Hafeez Wani1, Haroon Rashid Zargar1
1Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Skims, Srinagar, India.
World Journal of Plastic Surgery
|March 15, 2017
Summary
Perforator flaps offer a viable reconstructive option for challenging lower limb soft tissue defects. This technique provides good outcomes with reduced donor site morbidity, though venous congestion is a potential complication.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Plastic Surgery
- Reconstructive Surgery
Background:
- Reconstructing lower third leg soft tissue defects is difficult due to anatomical limitations.
- Local perforator flaps are gaining traction for limb reconstruction.
- This study details experience with perforator flaps for lower limb defects.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy and outcomes of perforator flaps in reconstructing lower limb soft tissue defects.
- To present clinical experience with various perforator flap techniques.
Main Methods:
- A prospective study included 23 patients with lower limb defects treated with perforator flaps.
- Hand-held ultrasound Doppler was utilized for pre-operative and intra-operative perforator vessel identification.
Main Results:
- Out of 23 patients, 1 experienced partial flap loss and 3 had distal flap necrosis.
- Four patients encountered minor complications: infection, wound dehiscence, and flap congestion.
Conclusions:
- Perforator flaps are a promising alternative to free flaps for challenging lower limb reconstructions.
- The technique offers versatility, minimal donor site morbidity, and precise tissue matching for superior cosmetic results.
- A significant drawback is the increased risk of venous congestion.
