title: Immediate tendon Achilles reconstruction with composite palmaris longus grafts.
abstract: Full-thickness defects of the posterior heel constitute a continuing reconstructive challenge due to a relative lack of regional tissues in this area and the inherent avascularity of the tendo-Achilles. Wound closure and tendon reconstruction with composite flaps can potentially accelerate healing, reduce scarring, and improve tendon function. In 2 patients, a radial forearm-palmaris longus composite free flap was used to reconstruct full-thickness defects of the heal and tendo-Achilles. Rapid healing and return of function were obtained without significant donor site disability.
authors.affiliation: Section of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA.
authors.forename: J S
authors.initials: JS
authors.lastname: Isenberg
authors.forename: S
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Fusi
mesh_terms: D000125:Achilles Tendon / Q000293:injuries / Q000601:surgery*; D000328:Adult; D016512:Ankle Injuries / Q000601:surgery; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D013524:Surgical Flaps