The rectus abdominis free flap for lower extremity reconstruction.
The authors present their successful experience with an attractive alternative to the latissimus dorsi and gracilis muscle flaps for lower extremity reconstruction--the free rectus abdominis muscle flap. The muscle flap has a dual blood supply, but the longer pedicle length and larger vessel diameter of the inferior epigastric vascular pedicle favor its use for free-tissue transfer. Surgical anatomy, technique, indications, and potential complications are outlined.
D000009:Abdominal Muscles; D000328:Adult; D002056:Burns / Q000601:surgery; D006801:Humans; D007866:Leg / Q000601:surgery*; D007869:Leg Injuries / Q000601:surgery; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010019:Osteomyelitis / Q000601:surgery; D013524:Surgical Flaps