Use of a flap based on the superior lateral genicular artery to cover lower limb injuries: case reports

ABSTRACT

The knee is one of the main joints in the human body, and due to its conformation and functionality, it is easily susceptible to injuries. Surgical reconstruction of injuries around the knee and proximal region of the leg represents a major challenge due to the exposure of osteoarticular, tendinomuscular and neurovascular structures and has been performed using various muscle and musculocutaneous flaps. Other flaps are also described for treating these lesions, although less frequently in the literature, such as the cutaneous flap based on the pedicle of the superior lateral genicular artery. Next, It presents a report of five cases of patients who were victims of motorcycle accidents in which the lesion was covered around the knee and proximal region of the leg using a skin flap based on the pedicle of the superior lateral genicular artery, in which good coverage of lesions, high flap survival rate, good clinical and aesthetic results. The use of the superior lateral genicular artery presents aesthetic advantages since the color and texture of the flap are similar to those of the knee region and provide a better quality appearance, in addition to not causing joint mobility problems.

Keywords:
Knee; Thigh; Surgical Flaps; Lower extremity; Reconstructive surgical procedures