Simple and Safe Soft-Tissue Coverage Technique Using the Bipedicled Flap in the Lower Leg.

BACKGROUND

Skin and soft-tissue defects in the lower legs present significant challenges for surgeons, especially when tendons, bones, or implants are exposed. In such cases, simple dressings or skin grafts are insufficient, necessitating flap surgery. The bipedicled flap is a simpler and more reliable method with a high success rate compared to other flaps, showing minimal flap failures. This study aimed to examine the advantages and limitations of using a bipedicled flap for soft-tissue reconstruction in the lower legs.

METHODS

This retrospective study reviewed medical records from January 2013 to May 2020, involving 10 bipedicled flaps performed on the lower legs. The study included 5 male and 5 female patients, with an average age of 54.5 years. The defects were due to various causes, including trauma, tumor surgery, postoperative complications such as dehiscence and skin necrosis, and chronic osteomyelitis. The size of the defects ranged from 4 × 3 cm to 16 × 13 cm. The outcomes assessed included flap viability, postoperative complications, and patient satisfaction. Patient satisfaction was assessed on a 15-point scale, evaluating appearance, function, and sensation with up to 5 points each, and categorizing scores as poor (1-3), below average (4-6), average (7-9), good (10-12), and excellent (13-15).

RESULTS

All flaps were successfully performed, and there were no cases showing any special complications. Patient satisfaction following the operation was excellent in 3 patients, good in 6 patients, and average in 1 patient, with an overall average score of 11.5 (good) out of 15 among the 10 patients evaluated.

CONCLUSIONS

The bipedicled flap is a simple and secure method for treating soft-tissue defects in the lower legs. Therefore, this technique can be considered as one of the viable options for treating such defects.