[The current possibilities for plastic repair with axial skin flaps on the lower extremity]

Based on results of complex topographo-anatomical investigations in 187 lower extremities and experiences with performing 220 operations of free and non-free plasty with axial skin flaps formed in the femur, shin and foot, the authors consider the lower extremity as a donor site and a recipient field for such operations. Eight donor zones are selected on the lower extremity and 39 different flaps can be formed within their limits, 27 of them being tested in the clinic. Comparative characteristics of all donor zones are given. The present-day possibilities of the substitution of different wound defects using the axial skin flaps from the femur, shin and foot are shown.