Coverage of donor site defects on dorsum of the foot after dorsalis pedis flap transfer with pedicled lateral supramalleolar artery flaps

Objective To investigate the clinical application of pedicled for coverage of donor site defects resulted from dorsalis pedis flap transfer.Methods From October 2008 to September 2012,the flap pedicled on the lateral supramalleolar artery was reverse transferred to cover the defect on the dorsum of the foot resulted from dorsalis pedis flap harvest in 11 cases.Among these cases 6 had second toe combined with dorsalis pedis flap transfer and 5 had dorsalis pedis flap transfer.Postoperatively the appearance of the flaps,pain and touch sensation,temperature perception and two-point discrimination were evaluated.AOFAS assessment of donor foot function was performed.Results Flaps of the 11 cases all completely survived.Primary wound healing was achieved at the flap donor site.Nine cases were follow-up for 12 to 24 months while 2 were lost to follow-up.The flaps had good appearance.There were no excessive scar,pain or ulcer.The patients were satisfied with the aesthetic results.Perception of pain,temperature and touch was restored.At 12 months postoperatively,twopoint discrimination was (10.1 ± 2.2) mm on average.Sensory recovery was S3+,while the mean foot and ankle AOFAS score was 90.7.Conclusion Reverse transfer of pedicled lateral supramalleolar artery flap is a good option for coverage of dorsum foot soft tissue defect.It reduces donor site morbidity and restores good appearance and function of the donor foot. Key words: Surgical flaps;  Transplantation;  Donor site;  Repair