Distal third avulsion in the lower limbs [LE AVULSIONI DEL TERZO DISTALE DELL'ARTO INFERIORE]

The Authors relate their experience in the reconstruction of the distal third of the leg with the use of free skin grafts and of microsurgical free flaps as a surgical emergency. Fourteen immediate reconstructions (within 72 hours) were performed and of these, nine took place within 24 hours from the injury. The results obtained stress the importance of performing the whole procedure as an emergency in a single step, whenever possible. With such protocol a decrease of vascular and septic complications was noted, together with a speedier recovery and a shorter hospital stay with subsequent cost benefit.