Treatment of soft tissue and tibia defects by using vascularized fibular skeletal flaps

Aim To explore the curative effect of vascularized fibular skeletal flaps from the other side in treatment of soft tissue and tibia defects.Methods A total of 13 patients with severe comminuted fractures of tibia,skin and soft tissue defects were reconstructed by using the opposite vascularized fibular skeletal flaps at first stage after thorough debridement.Results All patients were followed up for 17~24 months,and severe comminuted fractures of tibia was healed.No amputation was needed and no chronic osteomyelitis occurred.The circulation of revascularized limbs was good and the contour and function were restored satisfactorily.Conclusion It is a reliable choice to reconstruct the defect of the soft tissue and tibia by using contralateral vascularized fibular skeletal flaps.