The free soleus muscle perforator flap:an anatomic and clinical study / 中华显微外科杂志

ABSTRACT

ObjectiveTo study the anatomy of the soleus muscle perforator flap and its clinical application.MethodsIn 6 cadavers specimen with 12 lower limbs,the cutaneous branches and soleus muscle perforator artery were dissected and their measurements were recorded.Fourteen patients with skin and soft tissue defects from July 2002 to October 2010 were repaired by the soleus muscle perforator flap.Of the 14 patients,eight for dorsal and anterior defects of foot,two for anterior defects of malleolus,two for hand defects,two for elbow defects.The size of the flaps was 5 cm × 6 cm - 12 cm × 20 cm.Flap success rates and postoperative course were evaluated. ResultsThe soleus musclocutaneous perforators mostly appeared within 5 - 24 cm length below the head of fibula.The diameter of the artery cutaneous perforator was( 1.08 ±0.22)mm,vena concomitants was (1.20 ± 0.32)mm.All flaps were survived completely and the wounds got primary closure in 14 cases.The flaps were not overstaffed,and their shape,texture and color were similar to normal.All of the 14 cases were evaluated as satisfactory after 6 months to 12 months follow-up. ConclusionThe free soleus muscle perforator flap is an ideal flap for repairing skin and soft tissue defects with the merit of simple procedure,minimal trauma and more physiological circulation established.