The gastrocnemius muscle flap used as cover for exposed upper tibia

Abstract EN

Background and Objectives Management of exposed tibia as a result of any injury is challenging condition.

The difficulties come from poor vascularity of the area with high incidence of infection rate especially in delayed management waiting for the granulation tissue.

However the versatility of the gastrocnemius muscle flap for reconstruction of defects in the knee region from upper one-third of the calf to lower third of the thigh is well known.

The objective of the study is to evaluate the results of the gastrocnemius muscle flap used as cover for exposed upper tibia and it is complications.

Methods Among 20 cases in between 2004-2009 with different type of injuries to the lower limb, the gastrocnemius muscle flap used to cover exposed tibia.

Results All flaps survived, however minor complications such as wound dehiscence, cellulitis, or hematoma, were encountered in 6 cases (30%).

Conclusion The study reports the safe and successful and of exposed upper one – third tibia and shows advantage of gastrocnemius muscle flap as early covering of the exposed upper tibia.