Using Propeller Flaps for Lower Limb Reconstruction
Author Information
Author(s): Tos Pierluigi, Innocenti Marco, Artiaco Stefano, Antonini Andrea, Delcroix Luca, Geuna Stefano, Battiston Bruno
Primary Institution: Department of Orthopedics and Traumatology, UOD Reconstructive Microsurgery, CTO-M. Adelaide, Turin, Italy
Hypothesis
The study aims to evaluate the clinical results of local perforator flaps in the treatment of complex lower-limb defects.
Conclusion
Propeller-based local flaps are a reasonable option for surgical reconstruction of lower-limb defects.
Supporting Evidence
- Two patients showed partial flap necrosis postoperatively.
- Five patients experienced superficial epidermolysis.
- Minor complications included transient venous congestion in three patients.
Takeaway
Doctors can use special flaps from nearby skin to help heal big wounds on legs without needing complicated surgery.
Methodology
The study involved a retrospective analysis of 22 patients who underwent surgery using local perforator flaps over a period of 4 years.
Potential Biases
The presence of diabetes was noted as a significant risk factor for flap complications.
Limitations
The study was retrospective and involved heterogeneous sites, with procedures performed by different surgeons.
Participant Demographics
The study included 22 patients, with 11 men and 11 women, and a mean age of 56.5 years.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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