Outcome comparison in traumatic lower-extremity reconstruction by using various composite vascularized bone transplantation

Lower-extremity injury may present as a composite soft-tissue and bone defe ct, resulting directly from trauma or subsequent debridements. These compos ite defects often require vascularized osteocutaneous flaps for an effectiv e, staged reconstruction. Among various donor sites, the vascularized fibul ar flap is generally considered the best option because of its inherent adv antages. However, when the fibular flap is not available, iliac and rib fla ps become the alternative choices. The purpose of this retrospective study was to compare the functional results of the alternatively chosen bone flap s (iliac and rib flaps) with those of the fibular flaps.