Large transverse fasciocutaneous leg flap: whole leg flap

Large defects of leg and sole often need massive tissue transfer. As an alt ernative to microvascular transfer, we have developed a fasciocutaneous fla p in which almost the whole of the skin of the opposite leg is transferred based just on the septocutaneous perforators of the posterior tibial artery . The flap has been used as a cross-leg fasciocutaneous flap with potential for use as a free flap by taking a segment of the posterior tibial artery. Our experience with 11 cases is presented. Two patients suffered marginal necrosis while donor site problems were seen in another two patients. We ha ve found this flap to be safe, technically easy and with minimal donor-site morbidity. (C) 2000 The British Association of Plastic Surgeons.