Use of free fasciocutaneous and muscle flaps for reconstruction of the foot.

Seventeen free flaps were used to reconstruct severe injuries to the foot over the last 36 months at the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine. The type of free flaps used included six fasciocutaneous free flaps and eleven free muscle flaps with split-thickness skin grafts. The fasciocutaneous flaps were either radial forearm or scapular flaps. The muscle flaps used were gracilis, rectus, or latissimus dorsi muscle flaps. Each type, with their specific advantages, disadvantages, and indications for use as they apply to the anatomical areas of the foot, are described. Regardless of the type of free flap used, careful preoperative planning, attention to the size and location of the anatomical defect, and correct contouring and insetting should allow for maximal functional result and minimize postoperative morbidity.