Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 14, 2025
19:53
Single-stage Dynamic Reanimation of the Smile in Irreversible Facial Paralysis by Free Functional Muscle Transfer
Published on: March 1, 2015
105.9K
Free functional muscle transfer for lower extremity reconstruction.
David Chi1, Shreya Raman2, Kenan Tawaklna1
1Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Washington University Medical Center, Saint Louis, MO, USA.
Journal of Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgery : JPRAS
|October 5, 2023
Summary
Free functional muscle transfer effectively restores lower extremity function after injury or resection, offering a viable reconstructive option. Further clinical outcome studies are needed to solidify its role in patient ambulation.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Reconstructive Microsurgery
- Lower Extremity Reconstruction
Background:
- Free functional muscle transfer is a key reconstructive technique for lower extremity defects.
- It addresses muscle loss from oncologic resection, trauma, compartment syndrome, or nerve injuries.
- This procedure can be the sole viable option in select cases.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the principles, applications, and techniques of free functional muscle transfer in the lower extremity.
- To discuss donor muscle selection for various functional deficits.
- To present current clinical outcomes and patient selection criteria.
Main Methods:
- Review of underlying principles and surgical techniques.
- Discussion of commonly used donor muscles for specific defects.
- Analysis of recent publications and case series on lower extremity free functional muscle transfer.
Main Results:
- Achieved good functional recovery, with Medical Research Council grade up to 4/5 and full range of motion.
- Presented clinical outcomes and parameters from published case series.
- Included an illustrative case example.
Conclusions:
- Free functional muscle transfer is a suitable treatment for appropriate patients, restoring function and potentially ambulation.
- Further investigation and published clinical outcomes are essential for broader application.
