[Functional Extremity Reconstruction: Just a Modern Term or Reconstruction 2.0?]

Area of Science:

• Orthoplastic Surgery
• Microsurgery
• Reconstructive Surgery

Background:

• Orthoplastic surgery is a vital interdisciplinary field for complex limb reconstructions.
• Modern approaches extend beyond skin closure to reconstruct all tissue types and functions.
• The concept of

Purpose of the Study:

• To review and synthesize modern microsurgical and plastic surgery techniques for orthoplastic limb reconstruction.
• To propose an applicable overall concept for contemporary orthoplastic limb reconstruction.
• To address the lack of a universal definition for

Main Methods:

• Literature review of microsurgical and plastic surgery techniques.
• Analysis of clinical experience in orthoplastic limb reconstruction.
• Evaluation of interdisciplinary treatment planning and functional endpoints.

Main Results:

• Numerous techniques have evolved over six decades, focusing on functional limb reconstruction.
• A comprehensive approach requires addressing skin, bone, muscle, nerves, vasculature, and lymphatics.
• Interdisciplinary board meetings are crucial for establishing treatment plans focused on functional goals.

Conclusions:

• Orthoplastic surgery represents a paradigm shift towards "reconstruction 2.0" for limb defects.
• A unified concept is needed to integrate diverse techniques and achieve functional endpoints like mobility and reintegration.
• Further development is required to establish a clear international definition of "functionality" in this context.