Free Flap Coverage of Deep Tissue Defects of the Foot ∗

Abstract

This is a review of seven cutaneous or myocutaneous free flaps performed at the Duke University Medical Center for coverage of foot defects. The average follow-up is 19.3 months. The average anesthetic time was 7 h and 45 min. The average length of hospitalization was 14.1 days. There were no failures. The flaps provided excellent skin coverage and a good bed for further reconstructive procedures. Free myocutaneous and cutaneous flaps are useful tools in reconstructive surgery of the foot. The recently developed cutaneous scapular free flap is the authors’ preference for foot defect coverage.