An Innovative Application of the Free Vascularized Medial Femoral Condyle Flap in the Prevention of Recurring Neuropathic Ulcer in the Diabetic Foot: A Case Report

Martin Grohmann, Stefan Benedikt, Anna Vasilyeva, Heinz Bürger, Abigail Forbes, Michael Valentin Schintler

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

2 Scopus citations

Abstract

Despite various therapy options, the prophylactic and symptomatic treatment of recurrent ulcerations in the diabetic foot are still challenging. We report the application of a free vascularized medial femoral condyle flap to prevent the recurrence of pressure ulcer in a patient with diabetic foot syndrome. Our patient had type 2 diabetes and presented with pressure ulcers and osteomyelitis of metatarsal heads 2 and 3 after a great toe amputation. We chose to use a medial femoral condyle flap as a damper in the area of the metatarsal heads because of the relatively young age and good vascularity of our patient. We shaped the graft like a ski to distribute the pressure and prevent perforation of the plantar skin. Good results were achieved for wound healing, pain reduction, and improvement of gait. No pressure ulceration had recurred after a 3-year follow-up period. The versatility of the osteomyocutaneous graft from the medial femoral condyle is an important reconstructive tool for addressing major surgical problems. We present the first use of a medial femoral condyle flap in the treatment of a pressure ulcer in a diabetic foot. In selected patients, our method could prevent premature and extended amputations, thereby providing good improvement in patients’ quality of life.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)1020-1023
Number of pages4
JournalJournal of Foot and Ankle Surgery
Volume57
Issue number5
DOIs
StatePublished - Sep 1 2018

Keywords

  • 4
  • amputation
  • corticoperiosteal flap
  • diabetes
  • microsurgery
  • osteomyocutaneous flap

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Surgery
  • Orthopedics and Sports Medicine

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