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J Reconstr Microsurg 2021; 37(01): 005-011
DOI: 10.1055/s-0039-1695740
Review Article

Thin Perforator Flaps for Reconstruction of the Lower Extremity

Peggy J. Ebner
1   Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Keck Hospital of University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California
,
Daniel J. Gould
1   Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Keck Hospital of University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California
,
Ketan M. Patel
1   Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Keck Hospital of University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California
› Author Affiliations Funding None.
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Abstract

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


Publication History

Received: 06 June 2019

Accepted: 18 July 2019

Article published online:
30 August 2019

© 2020. Thieme. All rights reserved.

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