Medial Plantar Fasciocutaneous Flap Reconstruction for Load-Bearing Foot Defects in Patients With Acral Melanoma

Acral lentiginous melanoma (ALM) is a rare subtype of malignant melanoma that usually involves the weight-bearing plantar area. Plantar defect reconstruction has traditionally been performed with skin grafts or free flaps. This study examined the efficacy and safety of a medial plantar artery perforator flap (MPAPF) for plantar defect reconstruction after wide excision of an ALM.

Twenty-five patients who underwent reconstruction with a MPAPF between 2011 and 2021 were enrolled in this study. The defects were classified into 6 plantar zones. Demographic and clinical data were retrospectively analyzed.

Reconstruction with medial plantar fasciocutaneous island flaps was performed in all cases, except for 4 patients who had lesions in forefoot, which required free medial plantar flaps. Defects in lateral and posterior heel were more likely to present with venous congestion and require longer healing times and revision surgery (P < 0.05). The average follow-up period was 49 months. Four and 5 patients developed local recurrence and distant metastasis, respectively. Four cases of hyperkeratosis and paresthesia were documented, but there were no cases of ulceration or wound dehiscence. None of the cases required secondary debulking procedures.

The MPAPF is safe and effective for plantar defect reconstruction among patients with ALM. Meticulous dissection and adequate tunneling are needed, particularly for defects in the lateral and posterior heel, to minimize flap congestion and revision operations.