BACKGROUND: The reverse flow sural flap has been featured as a relevant option for reconstruction of the distal region of the legs and feet. However, some common mistakes are made while surgeons are learning how to employ this flap. The aim of this study was to analyze use of the flap by surgeons in with 10 years of experience by comparing the first 5 years to the last 5 years in order to identify technical alterations that contribute to better results. This study also aimed at alerting the surgeons in the learning phase regarding the most important details that should be addressed when using this technique. METHODS: We studied the results obtained for 61 reverse flow sural flaps used from January 2002 to December 2011. The patients were divided into 2 groups: group 1, patients that underwent surgery from January 2002 to December 2006 and group 2, patients that underwent surgery from January 2007 to December 2011. In group 2, we made changes to the fasciocutaneous flaps that included dissection of a fasciosubcutaneous margin exceeding the cutaneous portion of the flap and preservation of a lane of skin over the pedicle. RESULTS: In group 1, the incidences of partial necrosis and total necrosis were 18.5% and 3.7%, respectively, whereas group 2 had an 8.8% incidence of partial necrosis and no cases of total necrosis. CONCLUSIONS: The reverse flow sural flap is a good option for the treatment of the distal region of the legs and feet. Experience with this technique and the additional cautions described herein may contribute to even better results.
Surgical flaps; Reconstructive surgical procedures; Leg injuries
