A randomized trial of use of a modified reverse sural neurofasciocutaneous flap to extend the reconstruction range

Background When a reverse sural neurofasciocutaneous flap is used to reconstruct a forefoot defect, usually, the transverse length of the flap is increased or the pivot point is lowered to ensure the reconstruction range. Therefore, proximal partial necrosis leading to surgery failure is sometimes caused by insufficient arterial supply if the flap is too long or the pivot point is too low and has no a reliable perforator in the pedicle. Herein, we describe a new method for extending the reconstruction range of the reverse sural neurofasciocutaneous flap that can provide a higher survival rate. Methods Between July 2010 and July 2014, 24 patients with forefoot defect were randomly assigned into two groups. In the research group, 12 modified reverse sural neurofasciocutaneous flaps with extended reconstruction range were used to reconstruct forefoot defect. We dissected the septum along the last perforator to locate the main trunk of the peroneal artery, disconnected the proximal end of the peroneal artery at the root of the perforator, and separated the peroneal artery more distally to obtain a lower rotation point to extend the reconstruction range. The last perforator and a section of the peroneal artery were contained in the pedicle. In the control group, 12 traditional reverse sural neurofasciocutaneous flap procedures were performed. Results In the research group, 11 flaps survived with good quality and esthetic contours. Partial distal necrosis occurred in 1 flap. In the control group, 7 flaps survived. Partial necrosis occurred in the other 5 flaps. Compared with control group, the survival rate in the research group was significantly higher while the healing time was significantly shorter. All patients were satisfied with the therapeutic outcome in the research group. Conclusions Our modified method proved efficacious in extending the reconstruction range of the reverse sural neurofasciocutaneous flap. Meanwhile, partial necrosis was avoided because the length of the flap was shortened, and a reliable perforator was preserved in the artery pedicle. Trial Registration Chictr.org Identifier: ChiCTR2100046323.