Sensation in Distally-Based Sural Island Flaps

Reconstruction of defects in heel and malleoli with exposed bone has always been a challenge. Heel is a weight bearing region which needs sensation. Distally-based sural island flap is one of the options available for these kinds of defects. Here, in this study we have paid special attention to how these flaps become sensate.

This case-series study carried out on 14 patients who reffered to 15 Khordad Hospital, Tehran, from 2000 to 2003 and their defects had been covered with distally based sural island flap. Appearance of pain, temperature, light touch and two - point discrimination evaluated in flap region and compared with the contralateral site.

From 14 patients with this flap; 11 subjects (9 males and 2 females) entered into the study. Seven subjects had been injured during motorcycle accident. In 10 patients (91%), two-point discrimination in flap region was.13.2 mm, which was the same as the other side.

Covering the defects in heel, malleoli and distal third of leg with sural island flap is technically easy and with minimal donor site morbidity. Major vessels in the lower extremities are spared and this flap can be used in weight bearing areas with relatively good sensation.