Cross-Leg Flaps: Our Preferred Alternative to Free Flaps in the Treatment of Complex Traumatic Lower Extremity Wounds

BACKGROUND: Cross-leg flaps are a good choice for reconstructing traumatized lower extremities, especially when free flaps cannot be used. In this article, we present our experience in the treatment of traumatic lower extremity wounds by using cross-leg flaps. STUDY DESIGN: A total of 56 patients suffering traumatic lower extremities were treated with cross-leg flaps. Patients with diabetes mellitus and those who were heavy smokers were also included in this study. RESULTS: Most flaps survived without complications. Flap necrosis occurred in 2 cases. The hospital stay was 20.0 +/- 6.2 days and the flaps were divided at 13.3 +/- 2.8 days. The diabetes patients were mostly elderly, and they had longer hospital stays and duration for flap division. Follow-up was an average of 16.2 +/- 8.2 months. CONCLUSIONS: The cross-leg flap is an effective and simple method for treating traumatic lower extremity wounds. It should have priority over microsurgery, not just be an alternative to it. ((c) 2013 by the American College of Surgeons)