The lateral calcaneal artery as an alternative recipient vessel option for heel and lateral foot reconstruction.

BACKGROUND: Clinical outcomes of consecutive use of the lateral calcaneal artery (LCA) as a recipient vessel for microsurgical reconstruction have not been reported. This study aimed to evaluate the feasibility and safety of the LCA as a recipient vessel for microsurgical foot reconstruction based on anatomical study of CT angiography and clinical results of using this vessel as the recipient.

METHODS: Anatomic study was performed using CT angiography of 61 lower extremities (31 patients). The emerging point, course, and diameter of the LCA were evaluated using 3-D reconstructed images. The LCA was used as the recipient artery in 17 consecutive patients with a mean age of 59 years (range: 23-77 years). Thoracodorsal artery perforator flap was used in most cases (16 of 17), and clinical outcomes were evaluated.

RESULTS: The LCA emerged 31.1 ± 9.8 mm proximal and 14.7 ± 5.0 mm posterior to the tip of the fibula and traversed 13.9 ± 2.7 mm posterior to the posterior margin of the lateral malleolus. The accompanying vein was used for venous outflow in five patients and the small saphenous vein was used in the remaining cases. Emergent re-operation was performed in one case due to venous thrombosis, and salvage was successful. All flaps except for one with partial flap necrosis completely survived. During a mean follow-up of 13 months, all but one of the patients were able to wear shoes and walk.

CONCLUSIONS: The LCA may be safely used as a recipient vessel for microsurgical heel and lateral foot reconstruction.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: IV.