title: Distally based sural artery flap in soft tissue defects of the heel region.
abstract: Background. The coverage of tissue defects caused by decubitus ulcers in the remains a challenge for reconstructive surgery. In this article we describe our own experience with the use of the distally-based superficial sural artery flap. Material and methods. Between 1997 and 2004 we used distally-based superficial sural artery island flaps in 8 patients. In all cases the tissue was prepared as a fasciocutaneous flap. Results. All the flaps have survived. The advantages offered by this flap include constant and reliable blood supply, easy dissection, minimal morbidity of donor site, and preservation of the major arteries in the leg. We observed venous congestion and edema in three flaps, and marginal necrosis in one flap. Conclusions. The distally based sural artery flap is a good method for the treatment of soft tissue defects in the heel region. The procedure is short and can be performed in a single stage without microsurgery. This flap has the potential for reinnervation in demanding patients.
authors.affiliation: Klinika Ortopedii i Traumatologii, Akademia Medyczna, Białystok.
authors.forename: Marek
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Bielecki
authors.forename: Rafał
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Skowroński
authors.forename: Jan
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Skowroński