The rectus abdominis free flap for lower extremity reconstruction. ³

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Bunkis J. Walton RL. Mathes SJ. Annals of Plastic Surgery. [JC:5vb] 11(5):373-80, 1983 Nov. The authors present their successful experience with an attractive alternative to the latissimus dorsi and gracilis muscle flaps for lower extremity reconstruction--the free rectus abdominis muscle flap. The muscle flap has a dual blood supply, but the longer pedicle length and larger vessel diameter of the inferior epigastric vascular pedicle favor its use for free-tissue transfer. Surgical anatomy, technique, indications, and potential complications are outlined.