A Clinical Study of Vascularized Osteocutaneous Fibular Transfer

Lee, Kwang Suk; Park, Geun Soon; Kim, Kwang Hoe

Abstract

Recently, there were many cases which was associated with bone defect in the limb and skin defect. We had performed vascularized osteocutaneous fibular transfer with microsurgical technique and experienced early bone union and simutsneous external wound healing. So we, authers, reviewed 12 cases of vascularized osteocutaneous fibular transfer which were performed to the extensive bone defect of the tibia and associated soft tissue injury. And the following remarkable results were obtained. 1. With the uncontrolled bone infection, the vascularized osteocutaneous fibular transfer was able to be performed and there was no non-union. 2. During the follow up period, the grafted fibula had been hypertrophied. 3. In the cases which the fibula were grafted to the defect after the segmental and partial excision of the tibia, in general, the partial weight bearing was able to be started from 3 months to 5 months after the operation, In the cases with segmental and complete excision of the tibia, the partial weight bearing was able to be started from 5 months to 7 month after the operation. 4. In adult, free fibula can be obtained and grafted as 20cm as long and the fibula was a good donor for extensive long bone defect as a compact bone; the skin flap with fibula can be obtained and grafted as 17 Ã— 9cm as large in our experience. 5. In the vascularized osteocutaneous fibula transfer, the skin flap could be confirmed wheather the vascular anastomosis is patent or not as a monitor.