Thin flaps, a modification of traditional flaps that minimize the need for debulking
and revision, offer unique advantages in the field of lower limb reconstruction. Advances
in the field of microsurgery have made this streamlined method of reconstruction a
viable solution for soft tissue coverage in patients with both trauma and nonhealing
wounds. Better understanding of anatomy has allowed for flap harvest above the fascia
level and the Scarpal plane. These modifications allow for flap transfer with thicknesses
more comparable to the native anatomy of the lower leg, ankle, and foot. Flap survival
is comparable to traditional techniques with greater potential for improved patient-centered
outcomes.
Keywords
thin flap - free tissue transfer - lower extremity - microsurgery - reconstruction
