Severe lower-extremity injury. The rationale for microsurgical reconstruction.

The magnitude of the morbidity and the complexity of the required reconstructive efforts associated with severe lower-extremity traumatic injuries dictate that they be considered as a distinct entity. Microsurgical tissue transfers are usually indicated as the only viable solution for salvage of these significant injuries. Guidelines need to be established to facilitate the proper decision making prior to considering these complex reconstructive alternatives v the benefits of early extremity amputation.