Though giant cell tumor is not uncommon in young adults, simultaneous involvement of multiple mid-foot bones is very uncommon and very difficult to treat. For reconstruction of large segmental bony defects following tumour excision, free vascularized bone graft is an excellent surgical option. We report a case with extensive involvement of all the tarsal bones and metatarsal bases in a young adult. After excision his foot was reconstructed with vascularised bone flap. We were able to save his foot after a wide local excision and reconstruction with free fibula graft. Graft united early and showed excellent remodelling because of good vascularity. We feel that this method deserves consideration as a last attempt to salvage functional foot in disease like this.
Background:Large soft tissue defects around the lower third of the leg, ankle and foot always have been challenging to reconstruct. Reverse sural flaps have been used for this problem with variable success. Free tissue transfer has revolutionised management of these problem wounds in selected cases.Materials and Methods:Twenty-two patients with large defects around the lower third of the leg, ankle and foot underwent reconstruction with reverse peroneal artery flap (RPAF) over a period of 7 years. The mean age of these patients was 41.2 years.Results:Of the 22 flaps, 21 showed complete survival without even marginal necrosis. One flap failed, where atherosclerotic occlusion of peroneal artery was evident on the table. Few patients had minor donor site problems that settled with conservative management.Conclusions:RPAF is a very reliable flap for the coverage of large soft tissue defects of the heel, sole and dorsum of foot. This flap adds versatility in planning and execution of this extended reverse sural flap.
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