reappraisal of the role of the cross-leg flap

ABSTRACT

This study includes twenty patients treated by [cross-leg] flaps. The indication for operation was chronic traumatic ulcer in 15 cases, scarring and deformity in two cases; irradiation dermatitis with ulceration, post-burn ulcer and vulnerable scar in one case each. There were 17 excellent results [85%] where the flap had completely taken with no loss whatsoever nor ulceration. Postoperative oedema of the flap occurred in 3 of these patients, who had not followed instruction, but was cured in all. Two of the cases required defattening before the outcome could be labeled [excellent]. A [very good] result occurred in 3 cases [15%]. In these 3 patients an excellent result could have been achieved with greater attention to detail. Four cases are reported and 3 of these are taken to illustrate the fact that there may be no other alternative to the [cross-leg] flap. The [cross-leg] flap should therefore retain its place in the surgeon's armamentarium