Objective Periarticular defect coverage remains challenging because multi-vector tension forces affect wound tensile strength. This study presents our experience with keystone design perforator island flap (KDPIF) reconstruction of non-oncological periarticular defects surrounded by the zone of injury and describes the expanding versatility of KDPIF reconstruction for periarticular defects. Methods From June 2017 to July 2019, 12 patients aged 8 to 84 years underwent KDPIF reconstruction to cover periarticular defects. All defects resulted from non-oncological causes and were surrounded by the zone of injury. We reviewed the patients’ medical records and clinical photographs to collect and analyze clinical and operative data. Results The defect size ranged from 0.8 × 1.2 to 7 × 10 cm2. The flap size ranged from 1.5 × 3 to 15 × 18 cm2. All flaps survived completely. All patients showed favorable functional outcomes without significant limitation in joint range of motion during the follow-up period (range, 4–12 months). The mean observer scar assessment scale summary score and patient scar assessment scale total score were 17.667 ± 5.921 and 20.167 ± 6.478, respectively. Conclusion KDPIF reconstruction is a simple and effective surgical option for coverage of non-oncological periarticular defects surrounded by the zone of injury.
The keystone perforator island flap (KPIF) is popular in reconstructive surgery. However, despite its versatility, its biomechanical effectiveness is unclear. We present our experience of KPIF reconstruction in the human back and evaluate the tension-reducing effect of the KPIF. Between September 2019 and August 2020, 17 patients (51.82 ± 14.72 years) underwent KPIF reconstruction for back defects. In all cases, we measured wound tension at the defect and donor sites before and after KPIF reconstruction using a tensiometer. All defects occurred after complete excision of complicated epidermoid cysts and debridement of surrounding tissues. The defects were successfully covered with Type IIA KPIFs. All flaps survived, and there were no significant postoperative complications. The mean “tension change at the defect after Type I KPIF” and “tension change at the defect after Type II KPIF” were − 2.97 ± 0.22 N and − 5.59 ± 0.41 N, respectively, (P < 0.001). The mean “rate of tension change at the defect after Type I KPIF” and “rate of tension change at the defect after Type II KPIF” were − 36.54 ± 1.89% and − 67.98 ± 1.63%, respectively, (P < 0.001). Our findings confirm the stepwise tension-reducing effect of KPIF and clarify the biomechanics of this flap.
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