Microvascular Muscle vs. Fascio-Cutaneous Free Flaps for Reconstruction of Plantar Load-Bearing Foot Defects - An International Survey

Mert, Sinan; Heidekrueger, Paul; Fuchs, Benedikt; Nuernberger, Tim; Haas-Lützenberger, Elisabeth; Giunta, Riccardo; Ehrl, Denis; Demmer, Wolfram (2024): Microvascular Muscle vs. Fascio-Cutaneous Free Flaps for Reconstruction of Plantar Load-Bearing Foot Defects - An International Survey. Microvascular Muscle vs. Fascio-Cutaneous Free Flaps for Reconstruction of Plantar Load-Bearing Foot Defects—An International Survey. ISSN 2077-0383

Abstract

Background: The reconstruction of plantar load-bearing foot defects faces many plastic surgeons with a major challenge. The optimal patient- and defect-oriented reconstructive strategy must be selected.
Methods: To analyze the current trends and recommendations in reconstruction of plantar load-bearing foot defects, we conducted an international survey among plastic surgeons querying them about their recommendations and experiences.
Results: The survey revealed that the most common strategies for reconstruction of the foot sole are locoregional and microvascular
free flaps, emphasizing the relevance of plastic surgery. Among microvascular free flaps, muscle and fascio-cutaneous free flaps are by far the most frequently used. The target qualities of the reconstructed
tissue to be considered are manifold, with adherence being the most frequently mentioned. We observed a noteworthy correlation between the utilization of muscle flaps and a preference for adherence. In addition, we identified a substantial correlation between the usage of fascio-cutaneous
free flaps and further target qualities, such as good skin quality and sensitivity.
Conclusions: Our findings provide insights into the clinical reality and highlight important aspects that must be considered in reconstruction of the weight-bearing areas of the foot providing support in the selection
of the appropriate therapy.

• Dokumententyp: Artikel (Klinikum der LMU)
• Organisationseinheit (Fakultäten): 07 Medizin > Klinikum der LMU München > Klinik für Allgemeine, Viszeral-, Gefäß- und Transplantationschirurgie
• DFG-Fachsystematik der Wissenschaftsbereiche: Lebenswissenschaften
• DFG: Gefördert durch die Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - 491502892