Background: Tensor fascia lata pedicled flap is one of the most useful flaps for reconstruction pressure sore defects on trochanteric region. Debate exists on the safe dimension of the flap, as distal tip necrosis can be encountered. The aim of the current study is to report experience of Clinic for Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Clinical University Center of Sarajevo, with tensor fascia lata pedicled flap in reconstructing trochanteric pressure sore defects.
Patients and methods: From January 1993 to December 2007, 39 pedicled TFL flaps were used for reconstruction trochanteric pressure sore defects in 34 patients. We used 3 local flaps for reconstruction of small trochanteric defects and one direct suture. In our study we had 43 trochanteric pressure sores and in 9 patients pressure sores were bilateral. The age ranged from 9 to 65, with average age 41,2.
Results: The resulting trochanteric defects in this study were due to debridement of pressure sore. The size of the flaps used ranged from 15 x 6 cm to 30 x 15 cm. All flaps survived. Distal tip necrosis occurred in 4 cases. All 4 cases developed in a very large flap beyond the safe limits. Wound dehiscence occurs in 3 cases. There was minimal donor side morbidity in the form of partial skin loss in 1 case. The average follow up period in this study ranged from 6 months to 15 years.
Conclusion: Tensor fascia lata flap is reliable flap. Donor site morbidity is minimal. Problem with the flap can be encountered if the flap is not harvested with the safe limits and properly designed. Proper preoperative preparations must be taken into consideration. Chronic skin ulcers, such as pressure sores, that are refractory to conventional local wound therapies, are good examples of potential beneficiaries of the TFL musculocutaneous flap.