Abstract
Background/Purpose
Soft tissue loss over the ankle and heel is a challenging issue for reconstructive surgeons. The aim of this study is to present the technique of using sural neurocutaneous flap and analyse the results.
Methods
From 2002 to 2014, 15 cases of sural flap were performed in the Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology of United Christian Hospital, Hong Kong. All cases were handled by two hand surgeons. The outcomes and complications were reviewed retrospectively.
Results
The aetiology included trauma (6 cases), neoplasm (4 cases), Achilles tendon repair wound complication (3 cases) and ulcer (2 cases). The age of patients ranged from 21 years to 82 years (average, 61.9 years). The size ranged from 12 cm2 to 99 cm2. The mean follow-up period was 20 months. Eleven flaps healed successfully without significant complications.
Conclusion
Sural neurocutaneous flap is a reliable flap design with constant vascular anatomy. There is minimal donor site morbidity, and no major vessels are sacrificed. It provides a durable, pain-free, functionally and aesthetically satisfying coverage for ankle and heel wounds.