One-stage reconstruction of the complex defects of the Achilles tendon and the adjoining calcaneus using the chimeric superolateral thigh flap: A case report.

Reconstruction of the composite defects of the Achilles tendon and the overlying skin is a great challenge. Should the tendon insertion and adjoining calcaneal defects coexist, such reconstruction becomes far more complicated. A chimeric superolateral thigh flap based on the ascending branch of the lateral circumflex femoral artery provides all the components for this complex defect. We aim to illustrate a case underwent one-stage reconstruction of such defects with this chimeric flap. A 55-year-old man presented with composite defects of Achilles tendon (11 cm), adjoining calcaneus (2 × 2 × 3 cm), and the overlying skin (15 × 3.5 cm) due to unsuccessful repair for his right chronic Achilles tendon rupture, which was complicated by infection. This complex defect was reconstructed using a chimeric superolateral thigh flap consisting of the superolateral thigh skin (8.5 × 17.5 cm), full-thickness iliac bone (4 × 3 cm), and the intervening iliotibial tract preserving the fascia-bone junction, which substituted for the lost insertion of the Achilles tendon. Bone union and full weight bearing were achieved by 11 and 24 weeks, respectively, after surgery. Two debulking procedures were performed. Isometric plantar flexion muscle strength was comparable to the healthy side, but isotonic strength was somewhat reduced at 18 months after reconstruction. This chimeric flap provided all the possible components necessary for the complex Achilles tendon defect, and led functional outcomes.