title: Partial and complete reconstruction of Achilles tendon defects with the fasciocutaneous infragluteal free flap.
abstract: Multiple attempts to repair the Achilles tendon can be associated with major soft-tissue defects of skin and tendon necessitating reconstruction with free flaps. In view of its specific anatomical characteristics, the fasciocutaneous infragluteal free flap is best suited for restoring sensibility and achieving nearly full function, including resumption of sporting activities, with minimum donor-site morbidity. The anatomy, dissection technique, and results of 100 percent successful skin and tendon defect reconstruction in seven patients are presented.
authors.affiliation: Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Hospital of the Barmherzigen Brüder, Salzburg, Austria. plastchir@chpapp.at
authors.forename: Christoph
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Papp
authors.forename: Boris P
authors.initials: BP
authors.lastname: Todoroff
authors.forename: Christian
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Windhofer
authors.forename: Sabine
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Gruber
mesh_terms: D000125:Achilles Tendon / Q000293:injuries*; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D019651:Plastic Surgery Procedures; D012421:Rupture; D017695:Soft Tissue Injuries / Q000601:surgery*; D013524:Surgical Flaps