Functional Reconstruction of Arches of the Foot With Vascularized Fibula Flap.

Abstract

The skeletal integrity of the foot is as important as the soft tissue coverage of the foot. In this article, we present reconstruction of arches of foot with free fibula flap. Three patients with composite foot defects underwent reconstruction a with vascularized fibula flap. Free fibula flap was used to reconstruct the transverse arch in 2 cases and longitudinal arch in 1 case. The mean follow-up period was 3.2 years. Functional outcome was evaluated with 3-dimensional motion analyses at 12 months postoperatively. No early or late complications were encountered, and all patients were satisfied with both cosmetic appearance and functional aspects of their foot. Fibular bone showed a very healthy course without any fracture, resorption, extrusion, or migration. Three-dimensional motion analyses revealed acceptable gait capability in all cases showing successful restoration of the foot arches. As a conclusion, osteocutaneous free fibula flap can provide functional and durable reconstruction of longitudinal and transverse arches of the foot, especially if preservation of the length or the width of the foot is desired.