Related Experiment Videos
Applications of the posterior thigh flap
C Paletta1, T Bartell, S Shehadi
1Division of Plastic Surgery, St Louis University Hospital, MO 63110.
Annals of Plastic Surgery
|January 1, 1993
Summary
The posterior thigh flap offers reliable soft tissue coverage for pressure sores, particularly in trochanteric and ischial wounds. This surgical technique provides a dependable blood supply for complex wound management in at-risk populations.
Area of Science:
- Plastic Surgery
- Reconstructive Surgery
Background:
- Aging population and spinal cord injuries increase pressure sore incidence.
- Elderly, long-term hospital patients, and neurologically impaired individuals are at high risk.
- Pressure sores present a significant challenge in wound care and patient recovery.
Observation:
- The posterior thigh flap was developed from experience with lower extremity muscle flaps.
- Twenty-two posterior thigh flaps were utilized in 21 patients.
- The flap demonstrated reliability and a dependable blood supply.
Findings:
- The posterior thigh flap is effective for soft tissue coverage of trochanteric, ischial, and sacral wounds.
- It serves as a reliable pedicled flap for managing heel and foot wounds.
- Anatomical details and clinical applications of the flap are presented.
Implications:
- This flap provides a valuable reconstructive option for challenging pressure sore defects.
- It can improve outcomes for patients requiring coverage in difficult-to-treat lower extremity and truncal areas.
- Further research into flap variations and long-term outcomes may enhance its utility.