Over the past 7 years we have used five sources of free flap tissue transfers in 16 patients to reconstruct defects of the foot. These included groin, instep, dorsalis pedis, latissimus dorsi, axillary free flap. In these, not only skin flap but also tendocutaneous, osteocutaneous flaps were applied. All except two cases were successful in restoration of form and improvement of function.
From an analysis of these cases, we have developed indications for various transfers based on the functional needs of the area involved. For the reconstruction of dorsum of the foot, the groin flaps were suitable in need of bones, and latissimus dorsi muscle flap with split thickness skin graft were suitable in need of tendon reconstruction. This method of reconstruction should be considered when loncal tissues are not suitable for foot reconstruction.
|