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J Reconstr Microsurg 2013; 29(06): 373-378
DOI: 10.1055/s-0033-1343958
Original Article
Thieme Medical Publishers 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.

Proximal-Based Saphenous Neurocutaneous Flaps: A Novel Tool for Reconstructive Surgery in the Proximal Lower Leg and Knee

Jiezhi Dai
1   Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Shanghai Sixth People's Hospital, JiaoTong University, Shanghai, China
,
Yimin Chai
1   Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Shanghai Sixth People's Hospital, JiaoTong University, Shanghai, China
,
Chunyang Wang
1   Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Shanghai Sixth People's Hospital, JiaoTong University, Shanghai, China
,
Gen Wen
1   Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Shanghai Sixth People's Hospital, JiaoTong University, Shanghai, China
› Author Affiliations
Further Information

Publication History

15 September 2012

30 November 2012

Publication Date:
23 April 2013 (online)

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Abstract

Background Soft tissue defects around the knee region are usually complex and require adequate reconstruction with flaps. In this article, we present our experience using the proximal-based saphenous neurocutaneous flap for the reconstruction of soft tissue defects around the knee and the proximal lower leg.

Methods Between 2008 and 2010, 17 patients with soft tissue defects around the knee and the proximal lower leg were treated with proximal-based saphenous neurocutaneous flaps. The age of patients ranged from 19 to 61 years (mean 35.6 years). Defect sizes ranged from 3 cm × 4 cm to 9 cm × 18 cm and the flaps were designed with sizes ranging from 3 cm × 5 cm to 11 cm × 20 cm. The mean follow-up was 16 months (range 8 to 26 months).

Results Sixteen flaps survived completely, and one flap developed partial necrosis. Mild swelling was observed within a few days postoperatively, and no severe venous congestion occurred. The skin grafts in the donor sites survived completely. All of the 17 flaps gained a good sensory recovery, and only 2 patients complained of numbness on the grafted donor-site during extended follow-up.

Conclusion Our experience has demonstrated that the proximal-based saphenous neurocutaneous flap is a safe and reliable tool for reconstruction of the defects around the proximal lower leg and knee.

Keywords

saphenous neurocutaneous flap - proximal-based flap - reconstructive surgery
 

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