[Reversed sural neurovascular fascio-cutaneous flap for reconstruction of soft-tissue defects in ankle and foot].

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate clinical significance of reversed sural neurovascular fascio-cutaneous flap for reconstruction of soft-tissue defects in ankle and foot.

METHODS

From July 1994 to December 2002, 52 cases of soft-tissue defects in the ankle and foot were reconstructed by use of reversed sural neurovascular fascio-cutaneous flap, including 47 cases of traumatic defects, 3 cases of chronic ulcer and 2 cases of tumors. The flap area ranged from 4 cm x 6 cm to 10 cm x 21 cm.

RESULTS

The flaps survived in 48 cases; the distal part necrosed and secondary free-skin graft were further conducted in 4 cases. All soft-tissue defects were repaired and their accompanied bone and tendon exposure healed. Forty-six cases were followed-up for 5 months to 48 months, the color and texture of the flaps were excellent and 2-point discrimination was 11-17 mm (14 mm on average). The functions of ankle joints were good.

CONCLUSION

The reversed sural neurovascular fascio-cutaneous flap is convenient in design and dissection. Its use can retained and replace vascular anostomosed flaps to certain degrees.