Simple and Safe Soft-Tissue Coverage Technique Using the Bipedicled Flap in the Lower Leg.

Area of Science:

• Plastic Surgery
• Reconstructive Surgery
• Orthopedic Surgery

Background:

• Lower leg defects involving exposed bone, tendons, or implants pose surgical challenges.
• Standard dressings and skin grafts are often inadequate for these complex defects.
• Flap surgery, particularly the bipedicled flap, is indicated for effective soft-tissue reconstruction.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the advantages and limitations of bipedicled flaps for lower leg soft-tissue reconstruction.
• To assess the efficacy and safety of this reconstructive technique.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective review of 10 bipedicled flap cases on lower legs (January 2013 - May 2020).
• Inclusion of patients with defects from trauma, tumor excision, post-operative complications, and osteomyelitis.
• Assessment of flap viability, complications, and patient satisfaction using a 15-point scale.

Main Results:

• All 10 bipedicled flaps were successfully performed with no major complications.
• Excellent patient satisfaction was reported by 30% (3/10), good by 60% (6/10), and average by 10% (1/10).
• The overall average patient satisfaction score was 11.5 out of 15, indicating good outcomes.

Conclusions:

• The bipedicled flap is a simple, secure, and effective method for soft-tissue reconstruction in the lower leg.
• This technique presents a viable and reliable option for managing challenging lower leg defects.