Decubitus ulcers with extensive subcutaneous pocket formation require surgical intervention. Muscle and musculocutaneous flaps are ideal for decubitus coverage and dead space augmentation; however, recurrent ulceration is often unavoidable. Repeated recurrences eventually limit surgical options. Herein, we propose a local dermal fat flap as a valuable alternative for managing such cases.
Between 2020 and 2023, five patients (aged 19-80 years) with decubitus ulcers around the pelvis were treated using a local dermal fat flap. This technique involved epidermal denudation and augmentation of the dead space, with coverage provided by the residual subcutaneous tissue. During the follow-up period, no serious complications were observed in all cases.
Local dermal fat flaps are simpler and less invasive than conventional muscle and musculocutaneous flaps. They can be an alternative treatment for small- to moderate-sized decubitus ulcers that require coverage and augmentation.
