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.