title: Deep inferior epigastric perforator flap for foot reconstruction using an external pedicle.
abstract: When it is necessary to apply free flaps for foot reconstruction, the choices are limited. Conventionally, split-thickness skin-grafted muscle flaps and fasciocutaneous flaps from the back or thigh have been two major options, but these methods take substantial time to wearing normal shoes. As an alternative, the authors use the deep inferior epigastric perforator (DIEP) flap with an external pedicle. After elevation and thinning of the flap, the vascular pedicle is anastomosed at a site distant from the skin defect of the foot. About 20 days after that, the pedicle is severed, and the skin island is trimmed and sutured. This method provides thin and wide coverage within a limited time, and donor-site morbidity is minimal both functionally and aesthetically.
authors.affiliation: Department of Plastic Surgery, National Hospital Organization Kure Medical Center, Hiroshima, Japan.
authors.forename: Takeshi
authors.initials: T
authors.lastname: Masuoka
authors.forename: Satoshi
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Nomura
authors.forename: Kei
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: Yoshimura
authors.forename: Kitaro
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: Ohmori
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D018409:Foot Injuries / Q000601:surgery*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D017695:Soft Tissue Injuries / Q000601:surgery; D013524:Surgical Flaps / Q000098:blood supply