Medial gastrocnemius muscle flap for the reconstruction of unhealed amputation stumps.

OBJECTIVE: Unhealed amputation stumps after transtibial amputation are common and often require reamputation futher up the leg. The aim of our study is to describe our experience with medial gastrocnemius muscle flap coverage following a transtibial amputation.

METHOD: We retrospectively examined the records of patients who had an unhealed transtibial amputation stump who were then treated with a medial gastrocnemius muscle flap.

RESULTS: We identified seven patients, all had diabetes mellitus and an initial amputation by the long posterior flap technique. All of the flap reconstructions of the amputation stumps ultimately survived. A mild knee flexion contracture was seen in two amputees, whereas full range of motion in the knee was observed in the remaining five amputees. None have required further surgical intervention.

CONCLUSION: Medial head of gastrocnemious flap is an option for the reconstruction of the unhealed stump, particularly in the cases where stump shortening will not be feasible.