Fasciocutaneous flap choices to treat dorsal surface of foot defects

Abstract

AimDefects of the foot and ankle with exposed tendons or bone require either local or free flap coverage. Several publications in recent years have proven popularity of fasciocutaneous flaps for the coverage of defects of the foot and ankle. However, complications of these flaps are being discussed rarely in literatures.MethodsWe used distally based superficial sural artery island flaps, distally based lateral supramalleolar flaps and free thoracodorsal artery perforator (TDAP) flaps for the reconstruction of dorsal foot defects in 20 patients between 2005 and 2010. The surgical techniques and complications for each of fasciocutaneous flaps are discussed.ResultsBetter results were obtained with free TDAP flaps according to the other fasciocutaneous flaps.ConclusionAs compared to other flaps, the free TDAP flap is a reliable flap with consistent anatomy and a long, constant pedicle di-ameter. Its versatility, in which thickness and volume may be adjusted, leads to a perfect match for reconstruction of dorsal foot defects.

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