Reconstruction of Pretibial Defect Using Bone-Anchored Advancement Flap

Abstract

While free flaps have been widely used for reconstruction of pretibial defects, the extended operation times are known to be a major drawback. This report presents a case of successful lower leg reconstruction for a large pretibial defect with a bone-anchored advancement flap and split-thickness skin graft. A 59-year-old female patient underwent wide excision of sarcoma on the pretibial area. The skin defect measured 14×6 cm with a 10×2 cm exposure of the tibia in the medial aspect of the defect. An advancement flap was elevated from the medial side of the tibia to cover the exposed bone. The bone defect was reconstructed by the advancement flap with the aid of an anchoring suture to the tibia. Remaining defect with exposed muscles was covered using split-thickness skin graft. No immediate postoperative complication developed. One year after the operation, well-contoured reconstruction was achieved without functional morbidities. In reconstruction of pretibial defects, bone-anchored advancement flap can be considered in patients who are reluctant to or have risk factors for free flap reconstruction.