title: The V-Y plantar flap for reconstruction of the forefoot.
abstract: Stable reconstruction of the forefoot remains a formidable challenge. The present study reviews our experience with a flap of plantar skin and fascia advanced in a V-Y manner to cover metatarsal head ulcers. Although this technique was used in a variety of clinical situations, 71 percent of the 38 patients were diabetic with neurotrophic wounds. The anatomic basis for flap design is reported based on 10 fresh cadaver dissections. Flap survival was 100 percent. Ulcer recurrence was related to the problems inherent in the hypesthetic foot. We feel that judicious manipulation of the bony architecture along with weight-dispersion shoe inserts assists in preventing recurrent ulceration.
authors.affiliation: Department of Surgery (Plastic), Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, Hanover, N.H.
authors.forename: L B
authors.initials: LB
authors.lastname: Colen
authors.forename: S L
authors.initials: SL
authors.lastname: Replogle
authors.forename: S J
authors.initials: SJ
authors.lastname: Mathes
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D003646:Debridement; D003929:Diabetic Neuropathies / Q000150:complications; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D005534:Foot Diseases / Q000601:surgery; D005545:Forefoot, Human / Q000098:blood supply / Q000601:surgery*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008682:Metatarsal Bones / Q000601:surgery; D008722:Methods; D008875:Middle Aged; D012008:Recurrence; D012867:Skin / Q000098:blood supply; D012883:Skin Ulcer / Q000601:surgery; D013524:Surgical Flaps