The gastrocnemius myocutaneous flap (GMF): an alternative method to repair severe lesions of the leg.

A short review of the various methods of closing skin defects associated with severe injuries of the leg raised the question for using a myocutaneous flaps and particularly a gastrocnemius flaps. The surgical technique is described and the versatility of the flap is demonstrated with several examples and discussed showing how both the medial and the lateral gastrocnemius flap, can be used as a pedicle as well as a free flap, ipsi- and contralaterally.