Applications of the extensor digitorum brevis muscle for soft tissue coverage.

: The extensor digitorum brevis muscle flap is valuable in covering defects of the distal tibia and both malleoli as an island muscle flap. It can also be used as a free vascularized muscle transfer for more distant problems. Case reports illustrating these applications are described, demonstrating the advantages of consistent anatomy, large vessel size, flap thinness, arc of rotation, and an inconspicuous donor site.