Use of a Muscle Flap and a Split-Thickness Skin Graft for a Calcaneal Osteomyelitis after an Open Reduction and Internal Fixation

Abstract

Reconstruction of bone and soft-tissue defects after an open reduction and internal fixation of a severly comminuted calcaneal fracture presents a challenge to the treating surgeon. We present a case report in which an abductor digiti minimi muscle flap was used to cover a complicated wound with calcaneal osteomyelitis and wound dehisence at the surgical incision. This muscle flap provides an easy, reliable, and quick method to cover open wounds at the lateral aspect of the foot and ankle. (J Am Podiatr Med Assoc 98(2): 139–142, 2008)