[Defect coverage using gluteal flaps].

OBJECTIVE: Gluteal skin, fasciocutaneous and myocutaneous flaps can be used to cover decubitus ulcers in the sacral and ischiocrural area.

INDICATIONS: Decubitus ulcers in the sacral or ischial area that do not heal after exhausted conservative therapy.

CONTRAINDICATIONS: Moribund patients who are very likely to suffer a life-threatening complication. Non-cooperative patients who cannot follow the postoperative recommendations. The presence of extensive scars after previous operations in the donor area or irradiation of the donor area which may compromise the flap perfusion.

SURGICAL TECHNIQUE: A distinction is made between local skin flaps, perforator-based fasciocutaneous flaps and the myocutaneous gluteus maximus flap. By partial or complete elevation of the gluteus maximus muscle based on the superior and inferior gluteal vessels, this flap is useful for larger and deep defects in the sacral and ischial region. For more superficial defects, fasciocutaneous perforator flaps might be used. Smaller ulcers can be treated with local skin flaps. The donor site should be closed primarily.

POSTOPERATIVE MANAGEMENT: Consistent, postoperative relief by prone and lateral positioning of the patient, avoiding new decubitus ulcers. Drainage for at least 5-7 days. Antibiotic therapy is indicated only with appropriate detection of pathogens and in case of persistent infection.

RESULTS: With distinct anatomical and improved technical knowledge, the use of fasciocutaneous and myocutaneous flaps in the gluteal region is now an established procedure and can be used for reliable coverage of sacral and ischiocrural decubitus ulcers.