Presentation of an algorithm for the treatment of tissue defects in the foot and ankle region

Introduction: The treatment of soft tissue defects of the foot and ankle re gion remains a challenge, because special anatomical and physiological prop erties have to be considered. Patients and methods: The data of 52 patients , who were treated between 1994 and 1998, were analyzed. 48 % were posttrau matic defects and were located in the weight bearing zone in 37 %. Results: Fifty-nine procedures were used, including skin transplantation in 16 pati ents, local flaps in 3 cases, regional flaps in 14 cases, and microvascular procedures in 17 cases. Amputation was required in 4 patients. The overall success rate was 92 %. Complications occurred in 18 patients. Conclusions: Using these data and evaluation of the actual literature lead to the devel opment of an algorithm for the treatment of defects in this area. The moder n armamentarium of plastic surgery offers the possible different treatment modalities.