Evaluation of the dorsalis pedis free flap donor site by angiography.

Six patients were evaluated by angiography for dorsalis pedis free flap transfer because the course of the dorsalis pedis artery could not be traced by palpation. Two were subsequently excluded because they showed vascular occlusions. Successful transfer depends on the dorsalis pedis artery and its branches being intact, while healing of the donor site depends on the function of the posterior tibial artery. Angiography was found to be helpful in determining both of these factors.