OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the results obtained using local rotation myocutaneous flaps in cases of wound dehiscence after total knee arthroplasty. METHODS: Patients undergoing these surgical procedures were selected in the period 2000-2012. The nine selected cases in this period were subjected to flap coverage due to skin dehiscence associated with infection. In eight cases we used rotation flaps of the medial gastrocnemius and in one case, we used advancing skin. RESULTS: 89% of the cases were successful in the coverage of the prosthesis and the viability of the flaps. In four cases it was possible to maintain or review the prosthesis. Four other cases progressed to amputation for infectious treatment failure and a case remained without the prosthesis. The functional evaluation showed an unsatisfactory outcome in 89% of cases. CONCLUSION: Coverage flaps are a good option for the treatment of cases of dehiscence with exposure of the prosthesis and the functional failure was associated with the inability to control the infection and the damage caused by this. Level of Evidence IV, Case Series.
Arthroplasty; Infection; Surgical flaps; Knee
