Published online Nov 6, 2023. doi: 10.12998/wjcc.v11.i31.7562
Peer-review started: August 31, 2023
First decision: September 19, 2023
Revised: September 23, 2023
Accepted: October 26, 2023
Article in press: October 26, 2023
Published online: November 6, 2023
Decubitus ulcers, especially grades III and IV, pose significant challenges to reconstruction owing to their high recurrence rates. Surgical options including muscle and fasciocutaneous flaps have been explored; however, there is no universally accepted gold standard.
This study aimed to assess the thickness of combined fasciocutaneous and gluteus maximus muscle flaps used in patients with paraplegia for grade IV decubitus ulcer reconstruction to address the need for effective treatments with minimal complications.
The primary objective of this study was to measure flap thickness using radiological evaluation in patients with paraplegia who underwent combined flap reconstruction for severe decubitus ulcers.
This retrospective clinical study included patients with paraplegia who underwent combined flap coverage for grade IV decubitus ulcers. Flap thickness was measured using enhanced abdominopelvic computed tomography at 3 wk and 6 mo postoperatively.
This study demonstrated a successful reconstruction without major complications. Flap thickness decreased slightly but significantly between 3 wk and 6 mo postoperatively, with an average retention of 88.98%.
Combined fasciocutaneous and gluteus maximus muscle flaps offer an effective option for grade IV decubitus ulcer reconstruction in patients with paraplegia with the potential to maintain flap thickness over time.
Larger studies with longer follow-up periods are needed to further assess the effectiveness of combined flaps. Additionally, exploring the factors influencing flap thickness changes can enhance our understanding of the long-term outcomes of decubitus ulcer reconstruction.