Posterior Tibial Artery Perforator Based Propeller Flap for Lower Leg and Ankle Defect Coverage: A Prospective...

Area of Science:

• Plastic Surgery
• Microsurgery
• Reconstructive Surgery

Background:

• Reconstructing lower leg and ankle defects with exposed bone or tendon presents significant challenges for plastic surgeons.
• Perforator-based propeller flaps are a valuable microsurgical option, avoiding the need for microvascular anastomosis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the clinical outcomes of using a Posterior tibial artery perforator-based propeller flap for coverage of lower leg and ankle defects.

Main Methods:

• A prospective observational study involving 9 patients was conducted.
• The study focused on the application of Posterior tibial artery perforator-based propeller flaps for defect coverage.
• Postoperative follow-up was conducted for up to 6 weeks.

Main Results:

• Eight out of nine flaps (88.9%) survived completely.
• One flap experienced marginal necrosis, which healed secondarily.
• Two complications occurred: transient venous congestion and superficial epidermonecrolysis, both resolved spontaneously.

Conclusions:

• The Posterior tibial artery perforator-based propeller flap is a highly effective and reliable method for reconstructing lower leg and ankle defects.
• The procedure demonstrates a good safety profile with a low rate of significant complications.
• This flap technique provides a valuable reconstructive solution for challenging lower extremity wounds.