The distally based sural flap

The traumatized distal third of the lower extremity has been considered amenable to free tissue transfer in the majority of cases. The dogma has been to avoid local or regional tissue transfers. However, more recent experience has shown that local or regional flaps may be effective in reconstruction of the distal third lower extremity including the sural flap. The authors' experience is that the distally based sural flap (commonly referred to as the "sural flap") remains an excellent reconstructive option for all but the most distal of lower extremity soft tissue defects including the heel. In the following article the authors present the historical background, anatomy, the technique of flap elevation and its applications, and modifications and refinements. Copyright © 2013 by Lippincott Williams & Wilkins;.

Duke Scholars

Author Detlev Erdmann Surgery, Plastic, Maxillofacial, and Oral Surgery