Rotation flap of flexor hallucis longus and flexor digitorum longus muscles as distal leg coverage

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the rotation flap of flexor hallucis longus (FHL) y flexor digitorum longus (FDL) as safe coverage for the distal third of the leg. Methods: FHL and/or FDL flaps were performed in 7 patients between March 2012 and November 2014. The soleus muscle was added when necessary. Patient’s age and sex and cause, size and location of defect, need of additional flap, complications and functional results were recorded during an average 15-month follow-up. Results: Six grafts were totally viable. there was only one case of total. Rigid flexion of hallux interphalangeal joint was detected in one case, wich was not directly attributed to the graft procedure. Conclusion: The use of these grafts to cover the distal third of the leg was satisfactory. though the number of cases is scarce, the results obtained are encouraging.