Gluteal thigh flap in reconstruction of complex pelvic wounds

B. M. Achauer, I. M. Turpin and D. W. Furnas

Nine flaps for reconstructing pelvic wounds were centered on the posterior portion of the thigh over the inferior gluteal artery and posterior cutaneous nerve of the thighs of seven patients. No flap necrosis occurred and all wounds healed (one hematoma and one partial wound separation). Three patients had radiation wounds and three had immediate reconstruction following tumor resection. This flap represents an important advance in pelvic reconstruction and should be considered the flap of choice for this area. Contributions to the procedure from this series include (1) use in vaginal reconstruction, (2) length of flap extended to the popliteal fossa, and (3) use of an air-fluidized bed for postoperative management.