Open wound healing of the osseocutaneous fibula flap donor site

Br J Oral Maxillofac Surg. 2014 Nov;52(9):861-3. doi: 10.1016/j.bjoms.2014.05.003. Epub 2014 Jun 2.

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.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Bandages, Hydrocolloid
  • Bone Transplantation / methods*
  • Carcinoma, Squamous Cell / surgery
  • Compression Bandages
  • Dermatologic Surgical Procedures / methods
  • Fibula / physiology
  • Fibula / surgery*
  • Free Tissue Flaps / transplantation*
  • Humans
  • Mandibular Neoplasms / surgery
  • Plastic Surgery Procedures / methods
  • Skin Transplantation / methods*
  • Transplant Donor Site / physiology
  • Transplant Donor Site / surgery*
  • Wound Closure Techniques
  • Wound Healing / physiology