Clinical applications of the postfemur island flap pedicled with the postfemur neurocutaneous nutrient vessel.
- Author:
Chu-zhong LI
1
;
Jin-zhi HAO
;
Yi-xin ZHANG
;
De-kuan FENG
;
Long-jiang WANG
;
Peng-kang XIAO
;
Peng-yun CHEN
;
Si-feng WANG
Author Information
- Publication Type:Journal Article
- MeSH: Arteries; Follow-Up Studies; Humans; Necrosis; etiology; surgery; Skin; injuries; pathology; Skin Transplantation; Surgical Flaps; blood supply; pathology; transplantation; Thigh; Wound Healing
- From: Chinese Journal of Plastic Surgery 2003;19(4):248-250
- CountryChina
- Language:Chinese
-
Abstract:
OBJECTIVETo investigate the application of the island flap based on the postfemur neurocutaneous nutrient vessel.
METHODSThe flap was designed and applied to repair the defects in the gluteal, popliteal fossa or the bilateral postfemur areas. A total of 11 cases (12 defects) were treated with this method. The size of the defects ranged from 4.0 cm x 7.8 cm to 8.3 cm x 16.6 cm.
RESULTSOf the 12 defects, 9 achieved complete success. Epidermal necrosis occurred in the distal part of the flap in 3 defects owing to venous stasis, which were cured with skin grafting. Postoperative follow-up for 8-19 months showed that the appearance, texture, and function of the flap were satisfactory.
CONCLUSIONSThe advantages of the flap lie in the reliable blood supply, constant anatomy, and without sacrificing a major artery. The key points for the flap survival are utilizing the "Superficial vein-nutrient vessel of the cutaneous nerve system" and retaining a comet tail-shaped soft-tissue pedicle in the flap creation.
