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Review: Innovative Techniques in Preventing and Salvaging Neurovascular Pedicle Flaps in Reconstructive Foot and Ankle Surgery

John J. Stapleton, DPM, AACFAS

Pedicle flaps to cover soft tissue defects of the foot, ankle, and lower extremity are invaluable. However, venous congestion and flap necrosis, a common complication, poses greater morbidity to the patient as few remaining options for attempted limb salvage remain. The authors discuss how to prevent flap failure by allowing close observation and strict offloading of the pedicle flap through current external fixation designs. This article also discusses the role of medicinal leeches in reestablishing blood flow through the pedicle flap to prevent tissue necrosis. In addition, the use of hydrosurgery as an innovative technique offers the surgeon another option if faced with pedicle flap necrosis.

Key Words: limb salvage • reconstructive surgery • pedicle flaps • external fixation • hydrosurgery

References

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This Article Abstract Free Full Text (Free PDF) Free Alert me when this article is cited Alert me if a correction is posted Services Email this article to a friend Similar articles in this journal Alert me to new issues of the journal Add to Saved Citations Download to citation manager Request Permissions Request Reprints Add to My Marked Citations Google Scholar Articles by Zgonis, T. Articles by Stapleton, J. J. Social Bookmarking                   What's this?