Proximally Based Split Abductor Hallucis Turnover Flap for Medial Hindfoot Reconstruction: A Case Report

Limited reconstructive options exist for soft tissue defects of the foot and ankle because of a lack of surrounding tissue. Although microsurgical free flaps have become a popular treatment modality for this anatomic region, pedicled muscle flaps can provide robust coverage of small foot wounds with significantly less donor site comorbidity. One such muscle is the abductor hallucis, which can be used as a proximally based turnover flap to cover medial hindfoot defects. However, complete distal disinsertion of the muscle may lead to loss of support over the medial arch and first metatarsophalangeal joint, leading to pes planus and hallux valgus. In this case report, we describe a modified technique of a split abductor hallucis turnover flap for a young patient with a chronic, traumatic medial heel wound complicated by calcaneal osteomyelitis. By preserving part of the muscle's distal tendinous attachment, this technique allows for adequate soft tissue coverage while maintaining long-term biomechanical function.