J Plast Surg | Volume 4, Issue 1 | Research Article | Open Access
Tahir H*, Iqbal A, Khan I, Rahman OU and Hossain R
Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Liaquat National Hospital, Karachi, Pakistan
*Correspondance to: Hasan Tahir
Fulltext PDFBackground: Reconstruction of the distal one-third of lower extremity is a challenging task to perform. Among the available reconstructive options, perforator-based propeller flaps are of great value as they allow reconstruction without sacrificing the main vessel. The purpose of this study is to review the usefulness, versatility, and safety of these flaps in lower extremity reconstruction. Method: During January 2021 to January 2024 a total of 24 patients underwent lower extremity defect reconstruction with perforator-based propeller flaps. The study was conducted at Liaquat National Hospital, Karachi. Flaps were based on anterior tibial, posterior tibial, peroneal artery perforators and dorsalis pedis artery. Results: Among the 24 patients, 5 underwent reconstruction with peroneal artery perforator propeller flap, 8 based on anterior tibial artery, 8 based on posterior tibial artery, and 3 based on dorsalis pedis artery. Average flap size was 9.9 cm × 4.8 cm. Four patients developed partial flap necrosis and one developed wound infection which was managed conservatively. Conclusion: Flap reconstruction with like tissue always has a better outcome. Perforator based propeller flaps are safe and easy to harvest, providing good coverage for small lower extremity soft tissue defects.
Propeller flaps; Dorsalis pedis artery; Posterior tibial
Tahir H, Iqbal A, Khan I, Rahman OU, Hossain R. Propeller Flaps for Lower Extremity Coverage, Can These Be Used as a Work Horse Flap. J Plast Surg. 2026; 4(1): 1018..