[Current reconstructive measures for the covering of defects in the extremities]

Large defects of soft tissue and bone in the lower extremity are still a great surgical problem with regard to morbidity and preservation of the leg. Conventional operative procedures such as cross leg or pedical flap are frequently not sufficient to guarantee successful treatment. Local muscle flap, myocutaneous flap and free-tissue transfer with microvascular anastomoses are excellent surgical supplements for better and quicker treatment, as they can generally be performed in one operative step. Strict indication and a specially trained operating team are essential for successful treatment in these more risky procedures. The new techniques and applications are demonstrated on various cases.