TREATMENT OF ISCHIAL PRESSURE SORES WITH AN INFERIOR GLUTEUS MAXIMUS MUSCULOCUTANEOUS ISLAND FLAP - AN ANALYSIS OF 31 FLAPS

We describe our experience with the use of an island gluteus maximus m usculocutaneous flap (from its most inferior part) based on perforator s from the inferior gluteal artery. The study is based on a series of 27 patients in whom treatment was carried out for 31 ischial pressure sores. Eight patients had postoperative complications in the form of d ehiscence of the donor flap site and/or infection. Follow-up ranged fr om 6 to 32 months. During this period three patients developed recurre nt sores which were treated with other flaps. We feel strongly that th e use of this flap should be considered as a first choice in the treat ment of the mild to moderate size ischial pressure sore. Its advantage s include ease in elevation of the flap and the provision of a vascula rized bulky flap which also spares the vascular pedicles of adjacent f laps for future use.