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Abstract
The free fibula flap has been used to treat ten patients with important long bone
defects (mean length 14cm) following severe trauma.
Defects in all the long bones of the limbs have been treated by this technique.
Five free osseous and five osteocutaneous flaps were performed. Primary skeletal union
occurred at 17 bone junctions (85 per cent) within 5 months. No secondary grafting
procedures were required. The mean delay in referral was 17 months and eight patients
had already undergone three or more unsuccessful surgical procedures to promote union.
The versatility of the vascularized free fibula flap is presented as a one-stage reconstruction
for large bony and soft tissue defects, stressing the importance of prompt referral
and recognition of cases. A combined orthopaedic and plastic surgical approach to
these patients is advisable from the onset.
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References
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Article info
Publication history
Accepted:
November 10,
1990
Identification
Copyright
© 1991 Published by Elsevier Inc.
