The proximally based lateral superficial sural artery flap: a convenient and optimal technique for the reconstruction of soft-tissue defects around the knee

The proximally based lateral superficial sural artery flap offers prominent advantages in the reconstruction of soft-tissue defects around the knee. It is a thin, pliable and sensate flap; it has been shown to reduce donor-site morbidity and result in a good aesthetic outcome. However, there are few report regarding this flap in literature. This study aims to present our experience on the use of this flap in 14 patients. This retrospective study was performed over a 6-year period (from February 2009 to February 2015) using the proximally based lateral superficial sural artery flap. The size of the flaps ranged from 6 x 5 cm to 12 x 11 cm for soft-tissue defects around the knee where there is defect sizes ranging from 5 to 10 cm in length and 4 to 9 cm in width. The donor site underwent direct suture or skin grafting. All flaps and skin grafts survived, and the wounds healed by first intention. Follow-up for all patients ranged from 3 to 18 months. All patients had achieved good final outcomes. Due to the flaps are soft, fine texture and having excellent appearance, the operated knee had good flexion and extension, and those patients could walk normally. Thus, we believe that the proximally based lateral superficial sural artery flap is an ideal pedicled flap that is suitable for regional reconstruction around the knee.