Lateral Supramalleolar Flap for Reconstruction of Soft Tissue Defect around the Ankle Joint

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: Soft tissue defect on foot and ankle is vulnerable and requires a thin flap for improvement of aesthetic and functional results. Lateral supramalleolar flap is a simple and fast procedure, which can preserve and supply reliable constant blood flow, and causes fewer donor site complications. The authors reviewed our cases and report the clinical results. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Ten cases of soft tissue defects on the lower leg, around the ankle were treated with lateral supramalleolar flap. There were seven males and three females with a mean age of 54.8 years. The mean size of flaps was 5.9x6.3 cm and the mean follow-up period was 23 months. Flap survival and postoperative complications were evaluated. RESULTS: Nine flaps survived completely without loss of flap. There was one case of partial wound dehiscence requiring debridement and repair, and another case of necrotic flap change requiring partial bone resection and closure. All patients were capable of weight bearing ambulation at the last follow up. CONCLUSION: The authors suggest that the lateral supramalleolar flap could be a useful option for treatment of soft tissue defect around the ankle joint.