Reconstruction of the Lower Leg and Foot Using the Latissimus Dorsi Free Flap Report of Four Cases

Abstract

Four lower legs and feet with large soft tissue defect were resurfaced by free microvascular transfer of the latissimus dorsi muscle and overlying skin: one with a degloving injury of the foot with matatarsal fracture and exposure of the tarsal bone, two with large soft tissue defect of the middle third of the leg, and one with skin necrosis of the foot caused by a fall of stone. The procedure was successful in 2 patients whereas 2 patients sustained late superficial necrosis of the flap.