The free fibula flap is sometimes associated with partial flap loss. A 62-year-old man with squamous carcinoma of the lower alveolus underwent anterior arch resection and reconstruction with a fibula osteocutaneous flap containing three bony segments. There were two perforators in the skin flap; the first perforator was proximal to the bony segments and the other perforator was at the level of the middle segment. Atherosclerosis was observed in the anastomotic vessels. During surgery, thrombosis occurred in the arterial anastomosis, but was revised before the operation was over. The patient’s early postoperative course was uneventful. In the second week, purulent discharge was observed from the drains. Flap exploration showed devascularization of bony segments and periosteum, but the skin paddle was viable. The peroneal vessel had thrombosed distal to the takeoff of the proximal perforator and the viable skin paddle perfused by proximal perforators falsely indicated the well-being of underlying bones. The de-vascularized bones and sloughed periosteum were removed at the time of exploration, after which the skin paddle was reoriented for coverage of the defect. The patient completed chemoradiation without any bony reconstruction afterwards. This is the only reported case of early total bony flap portion loss with a viable skin paddle in free fibula flap transfer.
Introduction Liposuction is one of the common cosmetic surgery procedures performed. Although rare, the complications associated with it are necrotizing soft tissue infection and bowel perforation. We would like to share our experience of such a complication that was managed successfully.
Case Report We were referred a 65-year-old male patient with signs and symptoms of intestinal obstruction who had undergone liposuction of abdomen 1 week before and now had discoloration of the abdominal skin. The discoloration was present from just below the costal margin and was extending up to bilateral inguinal regions. Laterally the discoloration extended up to the mid axillary line on both sides. Imaging studies showed dilated small bowel. During laparotomy, he underwent debridement of all discolored skin and repair of the single jejunal perforation. Postoperatively patient was first managed on intravenous fluids, nasogastric aspiration and total parenteral nutrition for 10 days. The wound was managed with silver dressings that led to healthy granulations. The patient was at high risk for anesthesia for skin grafting; hence, he was managed with allograft for 10 days. The patient then underwent skin grafting once he was fit. The graft took up well and he resumed regular activities.
Conclusion This is unique as the patient had extensive necrotizing soft tissue infection of the abdominal skin after liposuction along with intestinal perforation and obstruction that was managed successfully due to aggressive surgical intervention, allograft, and good supportive care both in the intensive care unit and in ward.
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