The distally based superficial sural flap for reconstruction of the lower leg and foot.

We describe our experience with the use of distally based superficial sural flaps for coverage of defects in the lower leg and foot in 21 patients. In 18 patients the flap was successfully transferred, in 2 cases partial necrosis of the flap occurred and 1 flap failed completely. In 18 cases the flap was used as a fasciocutaneous flap and in 3 cases as a fascial flap only. The advantages of this flap are: easy and quick dissection, hence saving operating time, minimal morbidity of donor site and preservation of major arteries of the leg. Although the flap was described as reliable for covering defects around the ankle joint, we have been able to cover defects of the dorsum of the foot distally and up to the mid-third of the tibia proximally.