Transplantation Treatment of Extensive Soft-Tissue Defects in Lower Extremities with a Combination of Cross-Bridge Flap and Combined Free-Tissue Flap Covered by Vacuum Sealing Drainage: One Case Report

Abstract

This article reported the ultilization of cross-bridge flap transplantation and combined free-tissue flap transplantation to treat a 54-year-old male with Gustilo type III-C injuries. Thorough debridement, external fixation and vacuum sealing drainage were performed in the fist-stage treatment. After the removal of negative pressure on VSD devices, the joined free-tissue flaps and the cross-bridge flap were performed to repair the extensive soft-tissue defects. One month later the pedicle of cross-bridge flap was divided and the external fixator connecting both the lower legs was removed. In 3-month follow-up, the extensive defects was completely covered by a nearly normal skin and radiograph showed tibia and talus healing.