title: Metatarsal reconstruction with a fibular osteocutaneous flap: a novel approach utilizing virtual surgical planning.
abstract: Craniofacial reconstruction remains the main application for virtual surgical planning (VSP). We present a case in which this technology was applied to reconstruct a bony defect of the first metatarsal bone from a gunshot injury. VSP was used to facilitate a 1-stage reconstruction with a fibular osteocutaneous flap. A template of the reconstructed bone was designed based on the virtual mirror-image, noninjured bone. Prefabricated cutting guides facilitated precise shaping of the vascularized bone accounting for location of perforators. Successful reconstruction of the metatarsal bone was achieved with excellent functional outcomes. We believe that VSP can be a valuable tool in reconstruction of metatarsal bones by facilitating precise intraoperative shaping and anatomic orientation of the vascularized flap and reducing flap ischemia and operative time.
authors.affiliation: LSU Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, New Orleans, La.; Private Practice, Lafayette, La.; and Tulane University Division of Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery, New Orleans, La.
authors.forename: Hugo
authors.initials: H
authors.lastname: St Hilaire
authors.affiliation: LSU Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, New Orleans, La.; Private Practice, Lafayette, La.; and Tulane University Division of Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery, New Orleans, La.
authors.forename: Thomas N
authors.initials: TN
authors.lastname: Steele
authors.affiliation: LSU Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, New Orleans, La.; Private Practice, Lafayette, La.; and Tulane University Division of Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery, New Orleans, La.
authors.forename: Stephen
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Delatte
authors.affiliation: LSU Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, New Orleans, La.; Private Practice, Lafayette, La.; and Tulane University Division of Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery, New Orleans, La.
authors.forename: Christopher K
authors.initials: CK
authors.lastname: Hebert
authors.affiliation: LSU Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, New Orleans, La.; Private Practice, Lafayette, La.; and Tulane University Division of Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery, New Orleans, La.
authors.forename: Orlando
authors.initials: O
authors.lastname: Canizares