ABSTRACT
Due to the wide spectrum of lower extremity defect presentation, various reconstructive techniques are available. Classic adipofascial flaps are still a second choice. The authors described a new multistage reconstructive approach with perforator-based pedicled adipofascial flap. METHODS: This retrospective study analyzed data of 23 patients undergoing adipofascial flap reconstruction after distal leg trauma between June 2017 and January 2020. A reconstructive approach with an adipofascial flap followed by a skin graft was used in all patients. Patients were divided into two treatment groups, and in only one treatment group, an acellular dermal matrix was placed above the adipofascial flap during the first stage of the reconstruction. Negative pressure wound therapy was applied to both groups. Surgical technique, outcomes, and complications were discussed. RESULTS: All patients achieved complete healing, and no flap loss was reported. Minor complications occurred in four patients; all were treated conservatively on outpatient basis. The surgical and aesthetic results were evaluated as satisfactory from both patients and professionals. However, the group treated with acellular dermal matrix showed a lower complication rate, and resulted significantly more satisfied with the overall results and in several domains of the questionnaire administered postoperatively (P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: The adipofascial flap is a safe and effective approach for the reconstruction of small-to-medium-sized defects of the distal lower extremity. Our two-stage reconstructive approach maximizes the pearls offered by the established technique; the dermal matrix guarantees a layered reconstruction optimizing the surgical and aesthetic outcomes of the skin graft with minimal donor site morbidity.
ABSTRACT
Patients presenting with chronic wounds in venous insufficiency often represent a challenge, like other conditions, like lymphatic impairment, may complicate the wound healing process. The purpose of this report is to highlight how the treatment of lymphatic impairment may be beneficial in patients affected by chronic ulcers with concomitant venous insufficiency. We present the case of a 78-year-old woman affected by chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) with long-lasting ulcers secondary to sclerosing agents treatment for varicose veins. The patient's condition was refractory to both conservative and surgical treatment. Since the patient also presented with severe lymphorrhea, with a significant amount of daily secretion, ICG-lymphography was performed subcutaneously, to visualize the pathway of lymphatic drainage and leakage. It also allowed marking on the skin the exact location of lymphatic vessels distally to the wound area. Hence, two lymphatico-venous anastomoses were performed between the two major collecting lymphatic vessels and two subcutaneous veins of adequate size. The postoperative course was uneventful and the procedure allowed for immediate resolution of lymphatic leakage and complete wound healing within 2 weeks with no recurrence in the follow-up time of 1.5 years. Based on the outcomes of this case, it is possible to consider the use of CVI treatment and lymphedema surgery as a combined approach to complicated cases of long-standing venous ulcers with lymphorrhea.
