Lower extremity microsurgical reconstruction.

Abstract

LEARNING OBJECTIVES:

After studying this article, the participant should be able to: 1. Understand the indications for the use of free-tissue transfer in lower extremity reconstruction. 2. Understand modalities to enhance the healing and care of soft tissue and bone before free-tissue transfer. 3. Understand the lower extremity reconstructive ladder and the place of free-tissue transfer on the ladder. 4. Understand the specific principles of leg, foot, and ankle reconstruction. 5. Understand the factors that influence the decision to perform an immediate versus a delayed reconstruction. Free-tissue transfer using microsurgical techniques is now routine for the salvage of traumatized lower extremities. Indications for microvascular tissue transplantation for lower extremity reconstruction include high-energy injuries, most middle and distal-third tibial wounds, radiation wounds, osteomyelitis, nonunions, and tumor reconstruction. The authors discuss the techniques and indications for lower extremity reconstruction.

• Authors: L Heller, L S Levin
• Journal: Plastic and reconstructive surgery (Plast Reconstr Surg) Vol. 108 Issue 4 Pg. 1029-41; quiz 1042 (Sep 15 2001) ISSN: 0032-1052 [Print] United States
• PMID: 11547168 (Publication Type: Journal Article, Review)

Topics

• Bone Neoplasms (surgery)
• Costs and Cost Analysis
• Forecasting
• Humans
• Informed Consent
• Leg (surgery)
• Leg Injuries (surgery)
• Microsurgery (economics, methods)
• Orthopedic Procedures (methods)
• Plastic Surgery Procedures (economics, methods)
• Soft Tissue Neoplasms (surgery)
• Surgical Flaps
• Tissue and Organ Harvesting