Management of Gustilo Type IIIC Injuries in the Lower Extremity

Gustilo IIIC injuries of the lower extremity pose a significant challenge to the reconstructive surgeon. Key principles include early vascular repair and serial debridement followed by definitive coverage within 10 days. Primary reconstructive options following vascular repair include the anterolateral thigh flap or the latissimus dorsi muscle flap. Complications include elevated rates of microvascular thrombosis requiring return to the operating room, partial and complete flap loss, and infection. There is also an elevated rate of secondary amputation. However, in spite of higher complication rates, when approached thoughtfully and with an experienced multidisciplinary team, patients can achieve reasonable functional outcomes.