Sensory reinnervation in reconstruction of the foot.

Intact sensation constitutes an important protective mechanism for the plantar surface of the foot. For optimal functional results, sensory reinnervation in reconstruction of the heel of the plantar foot would appear to be helpful. Various techniques are presented in which both intact local tissue and distant tissue are used. The design of neurosensory fasciocutaneous flaps and musculocutaneous flaps from the foot, sensory-innervated full thickness skin grafts, and microsurgically transferred skin flaps, muscle flaps, and musculocutaneous flaps are presented. Free tissue transfer techniques can be used in combination with various sensory reinnervation techniques.