Superdrainage In Reverse Island Sural Flap: Indeed An Option To Increase The Predictability Of The Flap

Dr. Prabir Kumar Jash; Dr. Santanu Suba; Dr. Mainak Mallik; Dr. Deepanjan Dey

Volume : VIII, Issue : II, February - 2019

Superdrainage In Reverse Island Sural Flap: Indeed An Option To Increase The Predictability Of The Flap

Dr. Prabir Kumar Jash, Dr. Santanu Suba, Dr. Mainak Mallik, Dr. Deepanjan Dey

Abstract :

Soft tissue defects in the lower third of the leg and foot presents a considerable problem to reconstructive surgeons. A variety of flaps were used in the attempt to achieve excellence in form and function. Reverse Island sural flap has become the work horse for these defects. However, it often suffers from venous congestion. In order to reduce the rate of congestion and increase viability, venous superdrainage of the proximal cut end of the small saphenous vein with any draining vein of the foot can be considered. AIMS: To study and compare super-drained reverse island sural flaps with reverse island sural flaps in particular reference to technical details and flap viability. METHODOLOGY: Patients requiring lower limb reconstruction due to various aetiologies were being chosen randomly in 2 groups – study and control, evaluated and operated with the resurfacing being done by reverse island sural flaps either super-drained or not over three years in a tertiary hospital. The results were compared and analyzed using standard statistical methods. The study was a prospective, institutional and analytical one. RESULTS: Among the 30 patients in study (14 cases with superdrainage) and control (16 cases without superdrainage) groups, 1 patient and 4 patients respectively in the study and control groups suffered partial flap loss due to congestion. The spectrum of aetiologies was trauma in majority of the cases and the posterior heel region was the major recipient sites. CONCLUSION: Venous superdrainage improves the viability rate of reverse island flaps and can be safely considered in large sized flaps.