Archives of Plastic Surgery

Korean Society of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons (대한성형외과학회)
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The superior lateral genicular artery flap for reconstruction of knee and proximal leg defects

  • Low, O-Wern (Division of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery, Department of General Surgery, Ng Teng Fong General Hospital, National University Health System) ;
  • Loh, Tian Fu (Division of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery, Department of General Surgery, National University Hospital, National University Health System) ;
  • Lee, Hanjing (Division of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery, Department of General Surgery, National University Hospital, National University Health System) ;
  • Yap, Yan Lin (Division of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery, Department of General Surgery, National University Hospital, National University Health System) ;
  • Lim, Jane (Division of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery, Department of General Surgery, National University Hospital, National University Health System) ;
  • Lim, Thiam Chye (Division of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery, Department of General Surgery, National University Hospital, National University Health System) ;
  • Nallathamby, Vigneswaran (Division of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery, Department of General Surgery, Ng Teng Fong General Hospital, National University Health System)
  • Received : 2021.06.09
  • Accepted : 2021.08.30
  • Published : 2022.01.15
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Abstract

Reconstruction of defects around the knee region requires thin and pliable skin. The superior lateral genicular artery (SLGA) flap provides an excellent alternative to muscle-based flaps. The anatomy and the surgical techniques of the SLGA flap were reviewed and the results of cases using the SLGA flap for coverage of knee and proximal leg defects were analyzed. SLGA flaps were performed in two cases and followed up for at least 6 months. Twelve articles on the use of the SLGA flap were also identified. A review of 39 cases showed that the mean diameter of the perforator supplying the skin of the flap was 1.04 mm, while the mean diameter of the SLGA at its origin was 1.78 mm. The mean length of the pedicle measured from the origin of the popliteal artery was 7.44 cm. The average dimensions of the flap were 14.8×6.6 cm with primary closure of the donor site in 61.5% of cases. Of these cases, 38.5% were due to trauma, 23.1% were post-burn complications, 12.8% were defects after resection of tumors, and 10.3% were for ulcers post-bursectomy. The most common complication was flap tip necrosis. All studies reported favorable outcomes with complete wound healing.

Keywords

References

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