Perforator Flap Reconstruction for the Distal Third of Lower Extremity Defects: Clinical Application and Guideline Recommendation

Abstract

A distal third of lower extremity defect is challenging for plastic surgeons. The standard for treatment is microsurgery. Recently, perforator flap has been reported for small to medium defects. The objective was to analyze the outcomes of perforator flaps for distal third of lower extremity defects and to establish surgical guidelines. A retrospective review of patients with defects in distal third of lower extremities was conducted. Patients with multiple levels of lower extremity defects were excluded. A total of 8 patients with distal third of lower extremity defects were included. Seven patients were male. Overall mean age was 35.3 (18-60) years. Patients had 3 anterior, 3 lateral, and 2 medial defects. Lateral and anterior defects in 6 patients were closed using a peroneal-based propeller perforator flap with an angle of rotation of 90° to 160°. Medial defects in 2 patients were closed using a posterior tibial-based perforator advancement flap. Three patients (37.5%) developed venous congestion. No complications occurred for patients with medial defect closure using an advancement posterior tibial-based perforator flap. No total flap loss was observed. The perforator flap provides a similar texture to the skin at recipient area and a wide range of rotation. Perforator flaps should be the first choice for defects reconstruction in distal third lower extremities. Perforator flaps can be used for small to large defects, and can be moved by propeller or advancement depending on the perforator location. A guideline for perforator flaps reconstruction of the distal third of lower extremity defects was established.