SOFT-TISSUE RECONSTRUCTION IN SEGMENTAL D EFECTS OF THE LOWER LEG

Sequential radical debridement and early soft-tissue reconstruction ha ve considerably decreased the amputation rate, length of hospital stay , chronic osteitis, the rehabilitation period and secondary reconstruc tive procedures in lower leg injuries. The introduction of distraction osteotomy and ''biologic osteosynthesis procedures'' have led to shor ter and safer osteoplastic methods. The indication, tactics and techni cal pitfalls of current interdisciplinary treatment options requiring modifications in soft-tissue coverage are presented.