[Indications and experiences in saving of the lower leg following injuries and tumors]

In the primary treatment of skin and soft tissue defects of the lower leg, after injuries or tumor excision, split skin grafting is the method of choice. But in respect to the late results, frequently additional plastic reconstructive measures, preferrably skin flap procedures, must be considered. Follow-up over decades and if necessary, skin transplantation, are mandatory to prevent interference of growth and function of the leg, as well as malignant degeneration of the scars.