Local Muscle Flaps to Cover Leg Defects: What a Surgeon Should Know

Objectives: Bone and tendon-exposed tissue defects in the lower extremity, often resulting from trauma, infection, or surgical complications, present significant challenges for functional recovery and aesthetics. Local muscle flaps have emerged as a viable option for reconstructing such defects due to their rich vascularity, accessibility, and reduced need for complex microsurgical techniques. Methods: This retrospective study evaluated the efficacy of medial gastrocnemius, peroneus brevis, and medial hemi-soleus flaps applied to 10 bone-exposed tissue defects in eight patients. Parameters assessed included wound healing, muscle function, infection rates, and the need for additional interventions. Results: Results indicated that muscle flaps achieved favorable healing outcomes in the majority of cases: 40% showed excellent wound healing, 37.5% good, and only 12.5% had poor results. Muscle strength postoperatively averaged 77% of the contralateral side, and only three patients experienced minor infections requiring additional debridement. Complications, such as partial necrosis and dehiscence, were observed but were effectively managed with secondary interventions, including alternative flaps. Conclusion: The results demonstrate that local muscle flaps are an effective method for treating tissue defects with exposed bone; however, careful management of complications is crucial.