title: The rectus abdominis free flap for lower extremity reconstruction.
abstract: 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.
mesh_terms: 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