Keystone design perforator island flaps for coverage of non-oncological periarticular defects surrounded by the zone of injury

Abstract

Objective Periarticular defect coverage remains challenging because multi-vector tension forces affect wound tensile strength. This study presents our experience with keystone design perforator island flap (KDPIF) reconstruction of non-oncological periarticular defects surrounded by the zone of injury and describes the expanding versatility of KDPIF reconstruction for periarticular defects. Methods From June 2017 to July 2019, 12 patients aged 8 to 84 years underwent KDPIF reconstruction to cover periarticular defects. All defects resulted from non-oncological causes and were surrounded by the zone of injury. We reviewed the patients’ medical records and clinical photographs to collect and analyze clinical and operative data. Results The defect size ranged from 0.8 × 1.2 to 7 × 10 cm2. The flap size ranged from 1.5 × 3 to 15 × 18 cm2. All flaps survived completely. All patients showed favorable functional outcomes without significant limitation in joint range of motion during the follow-up period (range, 4–12 months). The mean observer scar assessment scale summary score and patient scar assessment scale total score were 17.667 ± 5.921 and 20.167 ± 6.478, respectively. Conclusion KDPIF reconstruction is a simple and effective surgical option for coverage of non-oncological periarticular defects surrounded by the zone of injury.