Treatment of Compound Tibia Fracture With a Microvascular Latissimus Dorsi Flap and the Ilizarov Technique

Treatment of Compound Tibia Fracture With a Microvascular Latissimus Dorsi Flap and the Ilizarov Technique: a Cross-sectional Study of Long-term Outcomes

This study assesses the long-term results of compound tibial reconstruction treated with a microvascular latissimus dorsi flap and bone transport technique during the last 25 year in Helsinki University central Hospital.

A retrospective review of hospital records was conducted to chart the clinical and operational characteristics of patient. Patients current condition is assessed by applying two function-related (Disabilities of the Arm, Hand and Shoulder, DASH; Lower Extremity Functional Scale, LEFS) and a health-related quality of life (the 15-dimensions, 15D) questionnaires. The patients received the questionnaires by mail. A written informed consent was obtained from the participants. The obtained data was computerized and analyzed.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Age over 15 years.
• Patients with acute compound tibial fracture or sequela treated with free latissimus dorsi flap and bone transport.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Deceased.
• Patients under 15 years of age.