title: A single-stage reconstruction of a complex Achilles wound with modified free composite lateral arm flap.
abstract: Composite defect of the posterior aspect of the heel, including the Achilles tendon, usually is very difficult to reconstruct as we face the problems of controlling infection, resurfacing the deficient skin defect, and restoring plantar flexion. With the latest advances in microsurgery, several free composite flaps have been used to reconstruct the defect in the Achilles tendon region to achieve stable and functional soft tissue coverage. We report such a single-stage reconstruction of a complex Achilles wound using the modified neurosensory lateral arm free flap including the triceps tendon strip and the posterior cutaneous nerve. Authors' rolled-up triceps tendon strip method is presented for the one-stage reconstruction of the Achilles tendon and soft tissue defect, providing good contour, strong tension, and protective sensation. The follow-up has proved a satisfactory outcome.
authors.affiliation: Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, College of Medicine, Soon Chun Hyang University Hospital, Seoul, Korea.
authors.forename: Cheol-Hann
authors.initials: CH
authors.lastname: Kim
authors.forename: Min-Seong
authors.initials: MS
authors.lastname: Tark
authors.forename: Chang-Yong
authors.initials: CY
authors.lastname: Choi
authors.forename: Sang-Gue
authors.initials: SG
authors.lastname: Kang
authors.forename: Yong-Bae
authors.initials: YB
authors.lastname: Kim
mesh_terms: D000125:Achilles Tendon / Q000293:injuries* / Q000601:surgery; D006365:Heel / Q000293:injuries*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D019637:Orthopedic Procedures / Q000379:methods*; D019651:Plastic Surgery Procedures / Q000379:methods*; D012421:Rupture; D013524:Surgical Flaps; D013718:Tensile Strength; D014947:Wounds and Injuries / Q000601:surgery