Posterior perforator tibial artery flaps for soft tissue defects of limbs: a retrospective cohort study

PurposeTo investigate the clinical effect of posterior perforator tibial artery flaps on repairing soft tissue defects of limbs.MethodsFrom June 2012 to June 2021, 14 cases of soft tissue defects of limbs were repaired with pedicled or free flaps of posterior perforator tibial artery. Among them, there were 9 cases of pedicled flaps and 5 cases of free flaps. The donor sites were closed directly or covered with skin grafting. The defects area varied from 3 x 5 cm to 7 x 16 cm. All cases were followed up for 1 year to 2 years.ResultsAll flaps survived completely except 3 cases with distal end necrosis and the 3 cases healed after dressing change. There were not any other complications at both donor and recipient sites. Appearance of the recipient sites was close to the surrounding skin. All patients were satisfied with the results.ConclusionPosterior perforator tibial artery flaps have the advantages of relatively simple technique, few damage, few complications and satisfying appearance. It is a good choice for soft tissue defects of limbs.