J Reconstr Microsurg 2011; 27(9): 525-530
DOI: 10.1055/s-0031-1285821
© Thieme Medical Publishers

Descending Geniculate Artery: The Ideal Recipient Vessel for Free Tissue Transfer Coverage of Below-the-Knee Amputation Wounds

James P. Higgins1
  • 1The Curtis National Hand Center, Union Memorial Hospital, Baltimore, Maryland
Further Information

Publication History

Publication Date:
02 August 2011 (online)

ABSTRACT

The descending geniculate artery has received notoriety as the source vessel of the medial femoral condyle vascularized bone flap in recent years. Its size and location enable it to serve as a useful recipient vessel in free flap reconstruction about the knee. It is particularly useful in coverage of unstable below-the-knee amputation stumps when recipient vessels are limited. It provides the ease and convenience of two-team surgery in the supine position and its distal position permits convenient and distal insetting of the transferred flap of choice. A discussion of its use in this setting and exemplary cases are provided.

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James P HigginsM.D. 

Care of Anne Mattson, The Curtis National Hand Center, Union Memorial Hospital

3333 North Calvert Street, M52 JPB Baltimore, MD 21218

Email: anne.mattson@medstar.net

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