Perforator-Based Propeller Flap for Lower Extremity Reconstruction

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: To report the clinical results of the perforated-based propeller flap for lower extremity soft tissue reconstruction. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Between January 2010 and June 2012, a total of 16 defects in the lower extremities were covered with perforator-based propeller flaps. Retrospective data for location and size of the defect, flap dimension, pedicle artery, pedicle rotation, complications were obtained. RESULTS: Peroneal artery-based perforator flap were used in eleven cases, posterior tibial artery-based perforator flap in two cases, anterior tibial artery-based perforator flap in one case and medial plantar artery-based perforator flap in two cases. The average size of the flaps was 63 cm2. The marginal skin necrosis of the flaps as a complication was developed in two cases, one of which was covered with split-thickness skin graft. There were no functional deficits from the donor site. CONCLUSION: For the reconstruction of lower extremities, the perforator-based propeller flap could be a reasonable alternative as it is a simple, safe and versatile technique.