[External fixation in reconstructive surgery: crossed leg flap.].

INTRODUCTION

Lower limb coverage defects are sometimes associated with disruption of vascular pedicles that make it impossible to perform free flaps. In these cases the crossed leg flap is a good therapeutic alternative. T

MATERIAL AND

METHODS

wo patients presented a coverage defect non-treatable with microvascularized free flap after being operated on multiple times in the lower limbs. A cross leg flap was performed stabilizing both lower limbs with an external fixator. Both patients showed a satisfactory recovery returning to walk without additional help.

CONCLUSION

Crossed leg flap stabilized by external fixation is a valid alternative for soft tissue defects.