Lower Extremity Reconstruction

L. Scott Levin; Christoph Heitmann

doi:10.1055/s-2003-39857

Seminars in Plastic Surgery, Table of Contents

Semin Plast Surg 2003; 17(1): 069-082
DOI: 10.1055/s-2003-39857

Lower Extremity Reconstruction

L. Scott Levin, Christoph Heitmann

Division of Plastic, Reconstructive, Maxillofacial and Oral Surgery, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC

Abstract

ABSTRACT

The advent of reconstructive microsurgical techniques has enhanced the outcome in patients who present for lower limb salvage. Free tissue transfer is now routine, and indications include reconstruction following trauma, tumor resection, and osteomyelitis. In addition, patients with dysvascular and diabetic foot problems as well as amputees with unstable residual limbs benefit from microvascular surgery. The authors discuss the impact of microsurgery on all of these indications and provide insight into future technologies.

KEYWORDS

Lower limb salvage - microsurgery - reconstructive ladder

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References

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