The Effect of Ilizarov Bone Distraction on the Transferred Free Flap in the Reconstructed Leg.
- Author:
Sang Hoon PARK
1
;
Han Koo KIM
;
Sang Hoon HAN
;
Sung Il BIN
;
Jung Jae KIM
Author Information
1. Department of Plastic Surgery and Orthopedic Surgery, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine.
- Publication Type:Original Article
- MeSH:
Follow-Up Studies;
Free Tissue Flaps*;
Humans;
Ilizarov Technique;
Leg*
- From:Journal of the Korean Society of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons
1999;26(1):43-50
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:Korean
-
Abstract:
For the reconstruction of the bone and soft tissue defect in the leg, combined free muscle flap and Ilizarov bone distraction method have been described as useful treatment modality. Five patients were treated by delayed Ilizarov method in conjunction with free muscle flap coverage. All flaps survived in spite of distraction of bone, elevation of flap for docking procedure and partial flap revision. There were no anastomotic complications. Tendency of decreased flap dimension and interposition of flap between distracted bone stumps were noted. The mean segmental defects were 8.8 cm and the mean distraction lengths were 9.8cm. The mean periods from free muscle flap coverage to Ilizarov bone distraction were 77 days(the shortest periods were 19 days and the longest periods were 5 months). The follow up interval from the time of free muscle flap coverage ranged from 4 to 35 months. Gradual distraction of a free tissue is a safe procedure and does not compromise the vascular flow to the flap. The position of flap and vascular pedicle should be carefully planned and the onset and the rate of distraction should be individualized.
