Distally based peroneal artery perforator-plus fasciocutaneous flap in the reconstruction of soft tissue defects over the distal forefoot: a retrospectively analyzed clinical trial
Abstract Background: Distally based peroneal artery perforator-plus fasciocutaneous (DPAPF) flaps are widely used for reconstructing soft-tissue defects of the lower extremity. However, large studies on this topic, especially DPAPF flaps use for reconstruction of defects over the distal forefoot, are scarce. Herein, we describe our experience on the reconstruction of defects over the distal forefoot using DPAPF flaps.Methods: Between February 2005 and August 2019, 56 DPAPF flaps were used to reconstruct soft-tissue defects in the forefoot. The ankles were fixed in dorsiflexion using a Kirschner wire. Patient factors and flap factors were compared between the “survival” and “partial necrosis” groups.Results: Overall, 47 flaps had survived completely in one stage. Partial necrosis developed in nine flaps, with only one remnant defect covered using a local flap. The distance between the pivot point and recipient area was reduced by fixing the ankles in dorsiflexion. The partial necrosis rate of the DPAPF flaps with the top edge located in the 8th zone was significantly lower than that in the 9th zone (p < 0.05).Conclusions: In combination with fixing of the ankles in dorsiflexion using a Kirschner wire, DPAPF flap is a good option in reconstructing a defect over the distal forefoot.