Open wound healing of the osseocutaneous fibula flap donor site

Abstract

Split skin grafts are the predominant method of closure for fibular flap donor sites. We present a novel approach to manage the donor site using the inter-related components of secondary intention healing: creation of a lattice to aid partial closure and compression dressings. The technique, which is widely used in dermatological surgery to manage cutaneous defects after operations for skin cancer, avoids the morbidity associated with the use of split skin grafts and enables early postoperative mobilisation.

Keywords: Fibular donor site; Open wound healing; Partial closure; Secondary intention healing; Split skin graft.