Basic principles for reconstruction of problem skin defects on the limbs and feet.

Skin defects on the limbs of animals present a problem from the standpoint that there is not an abundance of skin on the limbs to reconstruct with as there is on the trunk of an animal. Shifting local tissues can be used to correct small limb defects, and skin flaps from the upper limbs or body can be used to correct upper limb defects. Defects on the lower limbs and feet may require distant flaps or free grafts for reconstruction. Foot pads require special attention when being sutured. When foot pads have large defects or are missing there are techniques for replacement: however, there are certain principles that must be abided by when replacing foot pads.