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Reconstruction of lower extremity soft tissue defects is an exceptional surgical challenge, especially in multimorbid, elderly and severely ill patients with their thin and tense local soft-tissue conditions and increased perioperative risk. The distally based peroneus brevis muscle flap (DPBM), a local flap based on the muscular branches of the fibular artery, could pose a pragmatic solution. The objective of this study was to evaluate and quantify DPBM defect reconstruction in the lower leg, especially in elderly, multimorbid and severely ill patients.The DPBM as a surgical option in defect reconstruction in multimorbid, elderly, severely ill patients (inclusion criteria: at least 3 pre-existing comorbidities, patient age: at least 55 years, ASA status: at least III) was evaluated in a retrospective single-centre study from 01 April 2014 to 31 December 2019. The electronic SAP health records (EHR) were analysed according to 18 criteria, including patient details, extent of multimorbidity, defect characteristics, clinical outcome, and complications.Ten patients with a mean age of 72.6 years, a mean number of 8.5 pre-existing comorbidities and a mean ASA status of 3.1 met the inclusion criteria. The leading causes of defects, each with exposed tendons, bones, joint capsule, or joint, were chronic ulcers (n = 5) and soft tissue defects resulting from fractures (n = 3). In case of DMPB the success rate was 100% (no partial or total loss) with a short operating time (mean: 103 min) and a brief postoperative length of stay (mean: 11 d). In 2 patients (20%), DPBM surgery had to be discontinued intraoperatively and an alternative technique of defect reconstruction had to be adopted. The reasons included impaired muscle perfusion and fatty degeneration of the peroneus brevis muscle.The DPBM flap allows straightforward, fast and safe defect reconstruction in the lower extremity, particularly in elderly, multimorbid and severely ill patients at risk. In patients with inadequate peroneal brevis muscle, however, DMPB surgery should be discontinued intraoperatively and the defect reconstructed using alternative techniques.Die Rekonstruktion von Weichteildefekten der distalen unteren Extremität erweist sich insbesondere bei multimorbiden, älteren, schwer kranken Patienten aufgrund dünner und straffer lokaler Haut-Weichteil-Verhältnisse bei erhöhtem perioperativem Risiko als besondere klinische Herausforderung. Die distal gestielte M.-peroneus-brevis-Lappenplastik (DMPB) stellt hier als lokale, an Rr. musculares der A. fibularis gestielte Muskellappenplastik eine zielführende chirurgische Option dar. Ziel dieser Studie war es, den Einsatz dieser Lappenplastik zur Defektdeckung an der unteren Extremität insbesondere bei älteren, multimorbiden und schwer kranken Patienten zu evaluieren und zu quantifizieren.Mittels retrospektiver Single-Center-Studie im Untersuchungszeitraum vom 01.04.2014 bis 31.12.2019 wurde die Eignung der DMPB zur Defektdeckung an multimorbiden, älteren, schwer kranken Patienten (Einschlusskriterien: ≥ 3 Vorerkrankungen, Patientenalter: ≥ 55 Jahre, ASA-Status: ≥III) evaluiert. Im Rahmen einer SAP-Aktenanalyse wurden anhand von 18 Kriterien Patientendetails, Ausmaß der Multimorbidität, Defektbeschaffenheit, klinisches Behandlungsergebnis sowie Komplikationen untersucht.10 Patienten mit einem Durchschnittsalter von 72,6 Jahren, durchschnittlich 8,5 Vorerkrankungen und einem ASA-Status von durchschnittlich 3,1 erfüllten die Einschlusskriterien. Chronische Ulzera (n = 5) und Haut-Weichteil-Defekte als Folge von Frakturen (n = 3) jeweils mit frei liegenden Sehnen, Knochen, Gelenkkapseln oder einem frei liegenden Gelenk stellten die führenden Defektursachen dar. Wurde eine DMPB durchgeführt, so war die Erfolgsrate 100% (kein Partial- oder Totalverlust) bei zugleich kurzer OP-Dauer (durchschnittlich 103 min) und kurzem postoperativen Krankenhausaufenthalt (durchschnittlich 11 d). Bei 2 Patienten (20%) musste intraoperativ der Entschluss gegen eine DMPB gefasst und eine alternative Deckungsoption gewählt werden. Gründe hierfür waren Muskelminderperfusion oder fettige Degeneration des M. peroneus brevis.Die DMPB eignet sich insbesondere bei älteren, multimorbiden und schwer kranken Risikopatienten zur einfachen, schnellen und sicheren Defektdeckung im Bereich der unteren Extremität. Im Falle eines insuffizienten M. peroneus brevis sollte jedoch konsequent der intraoperative Entschluss gegen eine Defektdeckung durch eine DMPB und für eine alternative Deckungsoption getroffen werden.

BACKGROUND: The morphological features of the interosseous tibiofibular area in relation to the tensile stress of the interosseous ligament (IOL) have rarely been discussed. The purpose of the present study was to investigate the IOL on the basis of osseous surface morphology and macroscopic and histological anatomy. We hypothesized that the osseous surface of the interosseous tibiofibular area has a specific feature corresponding to the fibrous structure in the IOL. METHODS: Eighteen ankles from 15 cadavers were analyzed. Micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) images were obtained for all specimens to observe the osseous surface in the syndesmosis and to visualize the distribution of cortical bone thickness. Fifteen ankles were macroscopically analyzed, and the other 3 ankles were histologically analyzed. RESULTS: Micro-CT imaging revealed the osseous prominence on the medial side of the fibula. Cortical thickness mapping showed that the thickness of the cortical bone on the medial side of the fibula proximal to the prominence (mean and standard deviation, 1.4 ± 0.5 mm; p < 0.001) was greater in comparison with the other quadrants, namely, the proximal part of the tibia (0.8 ± 0.2), distal part of the fibula (0.7 ± 0.2), and distal part of the tibia (0.5 ± 0.1). Macroscopic analysis indicated that the perforating branch of the fibular artery ran through the proximal top of the IOL, which formed a thickened fiber and was attached to the fibular prominence. Histological analysis revealed that the thickened fibrous part of the IOL attached to the fibula via the fibrocartilaginous insertion. At the middle of the IOL, thin and fatty-like tissue was interposed between the tibia and the fibula. CONCLUSIONS: We observed that the osseous prominence of the fibula corresponded to the proximal thickened part of the IOL via the fibrocartilaginous attachment. The thickened proximal part of the IOL was consistently found in this location; we believe that this finding was related to the fact that the fibular artery perforated the adjacent distal part of the interosseous membrane (IOM). CLINICAL RELEVANCE: The location of the prominence on the medial aspect of the fibula could be a helpful clue as to the ideal location of syndesmotic fixation.

Background Fibular flaps have been widely used for mandibular and maxillary reconstructions. On occasion, anatomical variants of fibular arteries (FA) will be encountered. Purpose Although anatomical variants of FA during fibular harvest have been reported, controversy exists regarding whether simple color Doppler ultrasonography (CDU) and physical examinations (PE) are sufficient for early preoperative detection. Material and Methods A 10-year retrospective analysis in our department was performed to find the patients with various FA anomalies confirmed by computed tomography angiography (CTA) or intraoperative findings. Results A total number of 19 FA anomalies were found either pre- or intraoperatively in 16 patients, in whom three cases were with bilateral FA variants. Type IIIC variants, also called arteria peronea magna (great peroneal artery), were confirmed in two legs, while the majority (13 legs) had type IIIA hypoplastic/aplastic posterior tibialis arteries (PTA). Four legs had new type IIID (low FA and PTA bifurcations). Preoperative CDU and PE only suspected anomalies in two legs. Six cases proceeded with using the affected fibulas, within whom vascular grafts were used in half of them for lengthening the FA pedicle. Local ischemia, partial soleus muscle necrosis, and claudication were reported in one. Conclusions Routine CTA before every fibular harvest, rather than simple PE and CDU, should be added for screening contraindications and ensuring safety for fibular flap harvest.

The location of nutrient foramina has been extensively studied in long bones; however, accurate information on the origin and extra-osseous course of the nutrient artery remains clearly defined in some long bones, although it is crucial to protect the nutrient arteries during operative procedures. In this study, we elucidated the origin and extra-osseous course of tibial and fibular nutrient arteries based on the 54 cadaveric legs. The tibial nutrient artery typically arose from the posterior tibial artery. Some of the tibial nutrient arteries arose from the anterior tibial, popliteal, and fibular arteries. The tibial nutrient artery arose from these parent arteries as a long descending branch. It penetrated the most proximal portion of the tibialis posterior or flexor digitorum longus to enter the tibial nutrient foramen. The fibular nutrient artery arose from the fibular artery as a short descending branch in all the cases. The fibular nutrient artery penetrated the flexor hallucis longus to enter the fibular nutrient foramen. Our present and previous findings provide new insight into the anatomical characteristics for the nutrient arteries in the long bones of upper and lower extremities. Namely, the nutrient arteries of the long bones go away from the elbow or knee to enter the nutrient foramina.

For the last observation of the research result, there has been presented 35 patients with diabetes with atherosclerotic lesions of the fibular artery Chroniclimb - threaten ingischaemia (CLTI) with trophic foot changestheWound, Ischaemia and foot-Infection (WIfI) 3-4 degrees, which have been made 55 surgical interventions for 25 men (71,4%) and for 10 women (28,6%); the average age more or then was68 years old [7]. The mentioning patients used to be made artery ultrasound duplex scanning. According to the results of the revascularization, we identified 3 groups:angisome-directed revascularization (16 patients); 40% of the surgical interventions(22 patients). Angisome-indirect revascularization (16 patients); 50,9% of the surgical interventions (28 patients). Non-angiosome revascularization (3 patients); 9,1% of the surgical interventions (5 patients). There were participated 16 patients in the first group of patients; 2 (12,5%) from them were participated in the repeated surgical interventions to improvement of the blood circulation in the affected lower limb. The major part of amputation had placed among 6,25 % (one patient) of lower limb. There were participated 16 patients in the second group of patients; 5 (31,25 %) from them had repeated surgical interventions; at last the major part of amputation had placed among 25 % (4 patients); and one person had a healing of trophic foot changes. There were participated 3 patients in the third group of the patients; one (33%) from them had repeated surgical interventions, as the result, the major part of amputation; and one person had healing of trophic foot changes within 2 months; one (33%) from them had fatal injury after 2 months of the operation. Key words: the diabetes, the tibial artery occlusive disease (stenosis), the revascularization of the arteries, the angiosome’s theory, the artery duplex scanning.

Background: Detailed knowledge of the popliteal artery division and possible anatomical variants is of paramount importance for vascular surgery. Aim: The aim of the current study was to highlight a rare unilateral case of posterior tibial artery hypoplasia. Materials and methods: A dissection was performed at the posterior surface of the tibia in a 78-year-old Caucasian male cadaver of Greek origin. Results: The findings were consistent with unilateral posterior tibial artery hypoplasia and fibular artery enlargement. The variant fibular artery supplied the posterior surface of the distal leg and foot. Clinical implications of the fibular artery dominance are discussed. Conclusions: Rare anatomical variants of the tibial artery are of clinical significance to maximize safety and minimize intraoperative complications.

Introduction Identifying the branching pattern of the popliteal artery (PA) is a vital step in planning radiological and surgical procedures involving the anterior and posterior tibial and fibular arteries. The aim of this study was to characterize the course and morphology of the terminal branches of the PA. Materials and methods The anatomical variations in the branching patterns of the anterior and posterior tibial and fibular arteries were examined in 100 lower limbs fixed in a 10% formalin solution. A dissection of the popliteal region of the leg was carried out according to a pre-established protocol, using traditional techniques. Morphometric measurements were then obtained twice by two researchers. Results In most cases (72%) the PA divides to form the anterior tibial artery (ATA) and a common junction for the posterior tibial and fibular arteries (type I), which further splits into the fibular artery and the posterior tibial artery (PTA). This type was subdivided into two subgroups according to whether the ATA (subgroup a) or the common junction of the posterior tibial and fibular arteries (subgroup b) had the larger diameter. Other identified variations included division of the PA into the ATA and PTA—8% (type II), trifurcation—12% (type III), the division of the PTA into the ATA and FA—8% (type IV), and aplasia of the PTA—8% (type IV). Conclusion Although the typical PA branching type was observed, it can be classified further into two additional sub-types based on the diameter of the ATA and the common junction of the posterior tibial and fibular arteries.

Background The purpose of this study is to evaluate a new method involving time maximum intensity projection (t-MIP) postprocessed from dynamic computed tomographic angiography (dyn-CTA) in diagnosing peripheral arterial disease (PAD). Methods A population of 34 patients with known PAD was examined with a combined CTA protocol consisting of a standard CTA (s-CTA) scan of the lower extremities and a dyn-CTA scan of the calves. For each lower leg, t-MIP images consisting of the MIP0 (sagittal MIP), MIP+θ (45° lateral MIP), and MIP−θ (− 45° lateral MIP) were automatically generated from dyn-CTA. An objective evaluation of the vascular CT attenuation of the best enhancement phase of dyn-CTA and t-MIP was measured; a subjective evaluation of vessel stenosis and occlusion was performed, assigning a score for t-MIP and s-CTA. The CT attenuation of t-MIP and dyn-CTA was compared, as were the runoff scores of t-MIP and s-CTA. Results The CT attenuation of t-MIP CTA of three vascular segments from 68 lower extremities was higher than that of the best enhancement phase of dyn-CTA and s-CTA, with statistically significant differences at the posterior tibial artery and fibular artery (all p Conclusions There is potential clinical applicability of t-MIP in assisting with the diagnosis of lower leg vascular stenosis in dyn-CTA with reliable diagnostic accuracy and convenient immediacy.

Vascularized proximal fibular epiphyseal transfer is a reconstruction method for joints and growing bones. The authors investigated the vascular supply of the proximal fibula, including skin perforators, for suitability in creating an osteocutaneous flap. Twenty fresh cadaveric knees were studied using computed tomographic angiography combined with anatomical dissection. Three-dimensional angiography was used to develop an overview, and multiplanar two-dimension angiography was used for detailed data collection. Anatomical dissection verified by angiography was used to locate skin perforators of the proximal part of the anterior tibial artery. Proximal fibular bone perforators from the anterior tibial artery were found to arise either from the anterior tibial recurrent artery, the posterior tibial recurrent artery or the circumflex fibular artery in every specimen (100%), whereas perforators from the inferolateral genicular artery met those criteria in 12 of 18 specimens (66.7%). In the proximal half of 20 anterior tibial arteries, 129 skin perforators with a diameter larger than 0.5 mm were found. There were 54 potential septocutaneous skin perforators between the extensor digitorum longus and the peroneus longus muscles (EDL/PL), and 18 between the extensor digitorum longus and the tibialis anterior muscles (TA/EDL). Skin perforators from the inferolateral genicular artery emerging from the posterolateral corner of the knee had a diameter of < 0.5 mm. Based on this cadaveric study, the reverse flow anterior tibial artery pedicle and the EDL/PL or TA/EDL skin perforators can be considered as options for osteocutaneous proximal fibular transfers.

Pseudoaneurysms (PA) are rare complications following ankle arthroscopy (AA). Delay in diagnosis is reported to be frequent and could lead to serious complications. Evidence synthesis on the clinical context of such complication lacks in the literature. A systematic review is conducted to locate all relevant papers. In total, 23 case reports were included in the review. Data of 23 patients with a mean of 40.9 ± 10.3 years were extracted and analyzed. Outcomes included comorbidities, portals and procedure types performed during AA, PA location and size, time to diagnosis and treatment, and therapeutic modalities. The results showed that d-ATA and the dorsal pedis artery (DPA) were involved in 18 and 4 cases, respectively. A single case of PA of the fibular artery was described. The mean PA size was found to be 4.2 × 3.9 × 2.1 cm. Five of the 14 patients (35.7%) with a reported detailed medical history were treated for a cardiovascular or hemostasis condition. Delay in PA diagnosis was found to be at a mean time of 50.45 ± 74.6 days. The most commonly reported surgical indications were anterior synovectomy and removal of anterior osteophytes. Ligation was the most common procedure in treating PA. While portal placement might be a minor factor, the variability of the d-ATA and/or DPA anatomical position and its affection with foot position and distraction during AA could play a role in the arterial injury. Synovectomy and removal of anterior, particularly big-sized, osteophytes could be considered as risk factors as well. A state of hypocoagulability might affect injury healing and consequently PA formation. PA diagnosis should be raised whenever a non-resolving or pulsatile swelling over a portal incision is observed.

The perforators of the fibular artery provide a well vascularised supra fascial network which allows to raise a proximally or a distally based island fascio cutaneous flap with an adipo-fascial pedicle. We present a short series of five cases of this flap for coverage of soft tissue defects involving the region of the knee, the distal third of the leg and the lateral aspect of the heel. All flaps healed entirely without venous congestion. The advantages of the fascio cutaneous fibular island flap are the supine operative position, the preservation of the sural nerve and the lesser saphenous vein and a pivot point which can be located at the middle third of the leg. According to our experience, the fascio cutaneous fibular island flap is especially indicated for repairing defects of the distal leg.

The Free Fibula Osteoseptocutaneous flap is a reliable option when used in neophalloplastic procedures. It possesses intrinsic rigidity that is sufficient for penetrative intercourse, and satisfactory sensation. We review the pros and cons of this procedure, as well the anatomy and surgical steps involved. Surgical text descriptions were enhanced by the creation of new anatomic illustrations. Anatomy of the donor and recipient sites, as well as the surgical technique leading to creation of the neophallus are demonstrated in detail with new relevant illustrations. The free fibula osteoseptocutaneous flap provides the neophallus with many desirable characteristics. Its thick subcutaneous and fascial layer, along with the thicker fibula (compared to the radius), allows for a neophallus of greater diameter. Skin marking, flap lifting, and transfer to the perineum with all relevant neurovascular anastomosis; fibular artery is anastomosed with the femoral artery, while the fibular veins are anastomosed to branches of the saphenous vein, as well as neurorrhaphy of the dorsal nerves of the clitoris and the LSCN are demonstrated. The osteomatized fibula is fixed to the periosteum of the pubic symphysis as shown. Anatomical traits of the Free Fibula Osteoseptocutaneous flap allow intercourse without prosthesis. The donor-site scar in this procedure can be covered by a long sock, and donor site morbidity is acceptable. Clin. Anat. 31:169-174, 2018. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Introduction Pseudoaneurysms of the fibular artery are rare. Recently, endovascular techniques have been preferred over open surgery. Case presentation A 50-year-old male patient complained of recurrent bleeding from surgical wounds that had been present for one month. The patient sustained an open cruris fracture. No source of active bleeding was found at the time of exploration. The patient has then performed angiography with coiling and showed a pseudoaneurysm originating from the left fibular artery branch. Surgical debridement and external fixation were performed one day after the angiography and embolization procedure. The patient was discharged on the third day, and there has been no recurrent bleeding ever since. Case discussion A pseudoaneurysm can be thought of as one of the intractable bleeding causes. Recently, the endovascular technique has been commonly used as an alternative treatment if we did not find the source of bleeding in exploration. Many kinds of the literature showed the success of using non-surgical management, especially the coil embolization as the patient received. Conclusion In the management of pseudoaneurysm following trauma which cannot be found in open surgery, an endovascular technique like coil embolization can be the alternative method.

Purpose Variations of the terminal branches of the popliteal artery (PA) are not uncommon and manifest by a wide range of pathology. Medical professionals thus require knowledge and insight into popliteal anatomic arterial variability for effective medical practice. This study aimed to use computed tomography angiography (CTA) to describe variations of the terminal branches of the PA in a cohort not yet known to be affected by any acquired arterial abnormalities. Materials & methods Hundred and seventy-four bilateral lower extremity CTA scans of patients that underwent angiographic evaluation at our research affiliated hospital, with a total of 348 limbs were retrospectively reviewed after ethical approval was granted. The different anatomical terminal branching patterns of the PA were analysed and classified and the length of the tibiofibular trunk (TFT) were recorded. Results The most prevalent PA branching pattern was the “usual” Type I-A pattern, found in 301 limbs (86.49%). The TFT length in all Type I-A patterns varied greatly and ranged between 7 and 127 mm, with the mean TFT length equating to 30.99 mm ± 16.46. Variant branching's occurred in 47 limbs (13.51%). Most notably, a rare anomaly in the form of a bilateral hypoplastic fibular artery variation was observed in one scan, named as the newly classified Type III-D pattern. Conclusion Recognizing variations in the terminal branching patterns of the PA is important in vascular and orthopaedic surgical procedures of the lower extremity. Identification of these variations prior to procedural intervention can facilitate the planning of optimal treatment strategies and improve patient outcomes.

The fibular free flap (FFF) is based on the peroneal artery, which has a consistent anatomy and makes a minimal contribution to the pedal circulation. However, certain anatomical variations in the vasculature of the leg might leave the peroneal artery with a major role in the perfusion of the foot, and to raise a FFF could lead to ischaemic complications. Our aim was to review the implications of anatomical variants on planning and harvest of a FFF. We systematically reviewed all relevant publications, and included 28 cases that described a dominant peroneal artery and FFF. Most of the patients had clinically normal pulses, and the dominant peroneal artery was diagnosed by preoperative vascular mapping. Variants of the peronea arteria magna were the most common. Bilateral anatomical variations were reported in 10 cases. The surgical plan to harvest the fibula was altered in 21 patients with vascular aberrations. In 17 of the 21, the leg with the anatomical variant was not used. The opposite fibula was used in 10 cases. In four of the 21, the FFF was harvested from the leg with a dominant peroneal artery, after the technique of harvest had been modified. The FFF was successfully harvested without any modification in only five cases. Two patients who had not had preoperative vascular mapping developed acute ischaemia of the limb after harvest of the FFF because of an existing peronea arteria magna. Preoperative vascular mapping is a valuable way to assess that perfusion of the foot is adequate, and it provides accurate information about the vascular anatomy, cutaneous perforators, and the fibular blood supply, with minimal or no added cost or risks.

The study has contributed to evaluate the tibial nerve and its vasculature anatomically. Ten preserved cadavers (5 male, 5 female) have been used for this study. Each cadaver was injected with red latex and through incisions the tibial nerve was exposed at the level of bifurcation of sciatic nerve. The tibial nerve in 85 % cadavers was located between middle and lower thirds at upper angle of popliteal fossa; whereas, in 15 % cadavers it was present below the piriformis muscle in gluteal region. The total length of the tibial nerve was at a mean of 65.26±14.42 cm in males and 64.79±67.61 cm in females, without significantly different. Its total diameter was at a mean of 5.51±1.55 mm, with a mean of 4.11±0.88 mm at the popliteal fossa and a mean of 3.24±0.81mm at its termination deep to the flexor retinaculum in male cadavers. In female; the means were 5.11±0.21 mm, 3.97±1.78 mm and 3.14 ± 0.03 mm respectively without significance difference. It was concluded that tibial nerve has sufficient and good blood supply. Moreover, it can be utilized as allogeneic vascularized nerve graft to repair sizable nerves after limb salvage.

Anterior arthroscopic tibiotalar arthrodesis has been well codified. A posterior approach with the patient in prone position is indicated when the anterior approach is precluded by soft tissue issues or for a 1-step procedure associated with posterior subtalar fusion. In an anatomic study, we assessed the feasibility of posterior arthroscopic tibiotalar fusion and sought to determine the arthroscopy entry points, mortise cartilage freshening quality, and risk of osseous, tendinous, vascular, and neural complications. We mapped 22 zones of the fibular tibiotalar mortise from 10 specimens. Medial and lateral para-Achilles arthroscopic approaches were used, with a 4-mm arthroscope at 30°. For chondral resection, we used a motorized burr, curette, and osteotome. The entire plafond of the tibial mortise could be freshened in all cases, but the talar dome could be freshened in its entirety in only 20% of cases. In 80%, only the posterior two thirds could be treated, because the anterior portion descending to the neck of the talus was poorly accessible. More than 50% of the area of the malleolar grooves was freshened. One medial malleolar fracture and one posterior fibular artery lesion developed. Thus, the technique was shown to be feasible, if no frontal hindfoot deformity or tibiotalar equinus is present, which would prevent satisfactory resection of the posterior and anterior talar cartilage. The procedure allows for single-step associated subtalar fusion, requiring 2 complementary arthroscopic approaches, 1 cm distally.

The purpose of this study was to outline lower leg vessel anatomy and to investigate reliability and limitations of magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) in patients proposed for microvascular fibula transplantation (free fibula flap (FFF)). We retrospectively investigated MRAs of 99 patients considered for FFF. Frontal MRA planes and maximal intensity projections (MIPs) were evaluated for fibula lengths, anatomical branching pattern, arterial stenoses and fibular perforator positions in both legs (n=198). Normal branching patterns were observed in 168 (85.3%) legs. Twenty-nine (14.7%) legs presented abnormal branching patterns. Once (0.5%) the anterior, 19 times (9.6%) the posterior tibial artery were absent or hypoplastic. Nine (4.6%) lower legs presented an arteria peronea magna. Average length of the tibiofibular trunk (TFT) was 3.3±0.15cm. A total of 492 perforators were found with an average of 2.5 (±0.82±0.99) perforators per leg. A mapping of perforator run-offs was illustrated true to scale. Lower limb stenoses were distributed in the anterior tibial artery (14.1%), in the posterior tibial artery (11.1%) and in the fibular artery (8.1%). Smoking (P=0.828), diabetes (P=0.727) and peripheral arterial occlusive disease (P=0.172) did not correlate with presence of stenoses. Preoperative lower limb angiography avoids postoperative complications. MRA reliably and non-invasively identifies anatomical variants and arterial stenoses without radiation. Illustration of perforator run-offs enhances incision planning for fibula harvest.

Made available in DSpace on 2018-12-11T16:44:33Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 0 Previous issue date: 2016-07-01. Added 1 bitstream(s) on 2019-10-09T18:28:59Z : No. of bitstreams: 1 S1677-54492016000300234.pdf: 1403151 bytes, checksum: 9493ce8e711f726ca424ec2c930a7dce (MD5) The posterior tibial artery normally arises from tibial-fibular trunk at the popliteal fossa, together with the fibular artery. The classic course of the posterior tibial artery is to run between the triceps surae muscle and muscles of the posterior compartment of the leg before continuing its course posteriorly to the medial malleolus, while the fibular artery runs through the lateral margin of the leg. Studies of both arteries are relevant to the fields of angiology, vascular surgery and plastic surgery. To the best of our knowledge, we report the first case of an anastomosis between the posterior tibial artery and the fibular artery in their distal course. The two arteries joined in an unusual “X” format, before division of the posterior tibial artery into plantar branches. We also provide a literature review of unusual variations and assess the clinical and embryological aspects of both arteries in order to contribute to further investigations regarding these vessels. Hospital da Força Aérea do Galeão Universidade Estadual Paulista - UNESP Universidade Federal Fluminense - UFF Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro - UFRJ Universidade Estadual Paulista - UNESP

Carcinological head and neck reconstruction still remains a challenge due to the volume and varied tissues needed. Large and wide oromandibular defects require, not just the bone but also soft tissues for the pelvilingual reconstruction and therefore, a second free flap may become necessary in addition to a fibular flap. The option of an unique chimeric flap based on the fibular artery and its branches is less known whereas it offers the advantage of a unique flap with bone, muscle and multiple skin paddles, independent of each other. The aim of this technical note is to present step by step the surgical procedure of this chimeric flap and share this method that avoids a second free flap.

Introducción: El éxito de éste colgajo depende de la anatomía vascular de su pedículo y de la existencia de anastomosis con pedículos proximales. Los estudios vasculares anatómicos en cadáveres fundan las bases para la realización de colgajos musculares. El cirujano debe conocer cuales de los resultados de un estudio cadavérico son aplicables al paciente. Objetivos: Estudiar en cadáveres el número de pedículos distales, su topografía y la existencia de anastomosis con vasos proximales. Luego comparar estos datos con los hallados en pacientes. Material y Métodos: En 9 piernas cadavéricas se estudió la anatomía de los pedículos distales. En 5 pacientes se realizó colgajo de hemisóleo a pedículo distal y se verificó la correspondencia de los datos cadavéricos con los hallados en el vivo. Resultados: En el grupo cadavérico los pedículos distales para el músculo sóleo se originaron tanto de la arteria tibial posterior como de la peronea. El vaso mas distal se encontró en promedio a 6,32 cm de la línea intermaleolar y su origen mas frecuente fue la arteria tibial posterior. La presencia de anastomosis no fue demostrable en las disecciones cadavéricas pero si en el vivo. Conclusiones: Los resultados cadavéricos fueron comparables con los hallazgos del modelo vivo, salvo en la identificación de anastomosis, sólo evidenciables en éstos últimos. Esta información es útil para el abordaje y localización del pedículo distal que nutre el colgajo, pero no para definir el territorio anatómico del vaso. Por lo tanto, debe conocerse que datos originados de estudios cadavéricos pueden aplicarse al vivo. Introduction: The success of this flap depends on the vascular anatomy of its pedicle and on the existence of anastomosis with proximal pedicles. The anatomic cadaveric vascular studies set the foundation for muscle flap designs. Surgeons should know which results of cadaveric studies are applicable to the patient. Our objective was to study, in cadavers, the number and situation of distal pedicles to the soleous muscle and the existence of anastomosis between them and proximal dominant vessels for this muscle, and to compare this data with those found in patients. Material and Methods: The anatomy of distal pedicles was studied in nine cadaveric legs. Distally based hemisoleus flap was performed in five patients. The correspondence between cadaveric and patients data was verified. Results: Cadaveric group distal pedicles for soleus muscle were originated from the posterior tibial artery and also from the fibular artery. The most distal vessel was found at an average of 6.32 cm from the intermaleolar line. Its most frequent origin was the posterior tibial artery. The presence of anastomosis was demonstrated in patients but not in cadaveric dissections. Conclusions: Cadaveric results were comparable with those found in patients, except for the identification of the anastomosis. This information is useful for the localization and surgical approach of the distal pedicle that nourish the flap, but not to define the anatomical territory of the vessel. Therefore, it should be known which cadaveric data can be applied to the patients.

A 34-year-old female patient showed up with a non-neoplastic benign proliferative process located in the anterior region of the mandible with 2 years of evolution. Complementary exams such as biopsy and face tomography were requested to confirm the diagnosis of central giant cell granuloma. Bloc resection with safety margins and immediate reconstruction with a 2.4 mm bi-angled reconstruction plate was the treatment of choice, aiming to minimize the facial deformity, to condition the remaining soft tissue and to maintain the permeability of the airway. After 6 months postoperatively, there was a segmental defect in the mandible requiring rehabilitation. The reconstruction was performed with the plastic surgery department using a microvascularized fibular graft from the fibular artery and vein for anastomosis with the facial artery and vein, a head and neck angiotomography showed success of the surgery. The procedure enabled treatment with osseointegrated implants posteriorly for better aesthetic and functional recovery.

SUMMARY: Fibularis brevis grafts have been extensively used, especially as distally-based grafts, to cover defects in the lower leg and foot. The study has contributed to analyze the blood supply of the fibularis brevis muscle and the vascular basis of its possible different grafts. Both legs of twelve preserved cadavers, without congenital vascular anomalies, were utilized in the study. Fibularis brevis was exposed in all selected legs along with the verification of different arterial pedicles. The total means and standard deviations of the length and width of the muscle together with diameters of major vessels were calculated. Total length and width of middle portion of fibularis brevis were at means of 28.7±0.4 cm and 3±0.02 cm respectively. The upper and middle portions of the muscle were supplied by the fibular and the anterior tibial artery. The middle portion was supplemented by the upper perforating branch of the posterior tibial artery. The lower portion of the muscle was supplied by the lower perforating branch of the posterior tibial and the periosteal arteries. The muscle could be used as a proximally or distally based flap, free vascularized muscle graft, free vascularized osteo-muscular flap, and distally-based split flap. It can be split completely into two flaps; each of which can be used as a proximally or distally.

SUMMARY: Fibularis brevis grafts have been extensively used, especially as distally-based grafts, to cover defects in the lower leg and foot. The study has contributed to analyze the blood supply of the fibularis brevis muscle and the vascular basis of its possible different grafts. Both legs of twelve preserved cadavers, without congenital vascular anomalies, were utilized in the study. Fibularis brevis was exposed in all selected legs along with the verification of different arterial pedicles. The total means and standard deviations of the length and width of the muscle together with diameters of major vessels were calculated. Total length and width of middle portion of fibularis brevis were at means of 28.7±0.4 cm and 3±0.02 cm respectively. The upper and middle portions of the muscle were supplied by the fibular and the anterior tibial artery. The middle portion was supplemented by the upper perforating branch of the posterior tibial artery. The lower portion of the muscle was supplied by the lower perforating branch of the posterior tibial and the periosteal arteries. The muscle could be used as a proximally or distally based flap, free vascularized muscle graft, free vascularized osteo-muscular flap, and distally-based split flap. It can be split completely into two flaps; each of which can be used as a proximally or distally. RESUMEN: Los injertos de músculo fibularis brevis son usados ampliamente, especialmente como injertos de base distal, para cubrir defectos en la parte inferior de la pierna y el pie. El objetivo de este estudio fue analizar el suministro de sangre del músculo fibularis brevis y la base vascular de los posibles diferentes injertos. Para el estudio se utilizaron ambas piernas de 12 cadáveres preservados, sin anomalías vasculares congénitas. El músculo fibularis brevis fue encontrado en todas las piernas junto con los diferentes pedículos arteriales. Se calcularon las medias totales y las desviaciones estándar de la longitud y el ancho del músculo, junto con los diámetros de los vasos principales. La longitud y el ancho totales de la porción media del músculo fibularis brevis fueron de 28,7±0,4 cm y 3±0,02 cm, respectivamente. Las partes superior y media del músculo estaban suplidas vascularmente por la arteria fibular y la arteria tibial anterior. La parte media se complementó con la rama perforante superior de la arteria tibial posterior. La parte inferior del músculo fue suplida por una rama perforante inferior de la arteria tibial posterior y las arterias periósticas. El músculo podría usarse como un colgajo de base proximal o distal, injerto de músculo vascularizado libre, colgajo osteomuscular vascularizado libre y colgajo dividido distal. Se puede dividir por completo en dos colgajos; cada uno de estos puede ser utilizado como proximal o distal.