THE ROLE OF PEDICLED OR FREE FIBULAR GRAFTS IN KNEE ARTHRODESIS

Arthrodesis of the knee can be facilitated by using a vascularized fib ular graft if a large skeletal defect encompasses the knee joint or if conventional attempts at fusion have been unsuccessful. Solitary or d ouble fibular grafts incorporated as part of a free tissue transfer or an ipsilateral pedicled flap rotated proximally about the knee are ac ceptable alternatives. Either version requires the technical expertise well known to reconstructive microsurgeons, as emphasized in this rev iew, as a familiarity with this donor site and the nuances of graft el evation are essential for success.