[Long-term functional evaluation of complex traumatic heel defects reconstructed by flap in children].

INTRODUCTION: Complex heel injuries in children are rare and their management requires coverage combining resistance and thinness, to allow walking and footwear. The objective of this study was to create a decision-making algorithm for heel defect in children.

MATERIALS: Children received for heel defect, reconstructed with flap in our plastic surgery unit of Bordeaux with a follow-up greater than 10 years were investigated. Three children operated between 1999 and 2003 were included. A free contralateral reinnervated medial plantar flap, a free latissimus dorsi flap and a lateral supramalleolar flap were performed. Patients were reviewed in consultation to assess quality of reconstruction and functional outcomes. Three scores were used, the Foot Function Index (FFI), the AOFAS Ankle and Hindfoot Scale and the Maryland Foot Score.

RESULTS: No growth disorder has been found. Scores greater than 80 for the Maryland Foot Score and AOFAS Ankle and Hindfoot Scale and less than 10 for the FFI were very satisfactory in cases 1 and 3. We found pain and greater functional impairment in the second case.

CONCLUSIONS: "Like-with-like" reconstruction remains the gold standard, whether in loco-regional or free flap. The fasciocutaneous flaps allow custom reliable coverage with little donor site morbidity. Loco-regional flaps remain easily accessible but donor site sequelae are not negligible.