[Early pressure on the gluteus maximus rotation flap in sacral decubitus ulcer]

The myocutaneous gluteus maximus flap in V-Y technique has become the workhorse for covering extensive sacral pressure sores. clinical experience indicates that this flap can sustain pressure prior to the usual three week period. Transcutaneous pO2 measurements permitted us to follow the flaps perfusion and to develop a new mobilization regimen. Patients can lie in the supine position for 30 minutes immediately after surgery for two hourly intervals. Three days postoperatively the usual two-hour repositioning can be resumed. This regimen represents a considerable improvement for paraplegics and has shown a comparable complication rate in 18 cases.