J Reconstr Microsurg 2004; 20(8): 593-597
DOI: 10.1055/s-2004-861516
Copyright © 2004 by Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc., 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001 USA.

Use of Soleus Muscle Flaps for Coverage of Distal Third Tibial Defects

Christian A. Kauffman1 , Lars-Uwe Lahoda1 , Paul S. Cederna1 , 2 , William M. Kuzon1 , 2  Jr. 
  • 1Department of Surgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
  • 2Institute of Gerontology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
Further Information

Publication History

Publication Date:
03 January 2005 (online)

ABSTRACT

The authors reviewed the outcome of 12 patients who underwent soleus flap reconstruction of distal third lower extremity defects. Nine of the 12 patients achieved a healed, stable wound; however, several flaps and multiple additional procedures were often required. One of the 12 patients experienced soleus flap loss and two of the patients required below-knee amputations. Failure of limb salvage was related to traumatic injuries or comorbid conditions such as peripheral vascular disease, smoking, and planned radiation. They conclude that these factors should be considered relative contraindications to the use of the soleus flap in the distal third of the leg, and that free flap coverage is the most reliable option for these high-risk patients.

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William M Kuzon Jr.M.D. Ph.D. 

Section of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery

1500 E. Medical Center Drive, 2130 Taubman Health Care Center

Ann Arbor, MI 48109