Transfer of free rural neurovascular flap based on perforating branches of the peroneal artery to repair soft tissue defects of the upper limbs

Objective To introduce the surgical techniques of transferring sural neurovascular flap based on peroneal artery distal perforators for coverage of soft tissue defects of the upper limbs.Methods From June 2006 to August 2007,sural neurovasculur flap based on peroneal artery distal perforators was transferred to repair upper limb soft tissue defects in 6 cases.In 4 cases cutaneous nerve of the recipient site was sutured to the sural nerve.Results All flaps survived completely.The patients were followed-up for 4 months to 1.5 years.The appearance and quality of the flaps,including color,thickness,texture and contour,are comparable with the recipient site.The flaps with cutaneous nerve coaptation recovered S2 and better sensation.The 2 cases without cutaneous nerve repair recovered protective sensation.Conclusion Free sural neurovaseular flap based on perforating branches of the peroneal artery is an effective method for treatment of soft tissue defect in upper limbs. Key words: Surgical flaps; Microsurgery; Arm injuries