Assessment of fibula osteoseptocutaneous flap donor‐site morbidity using balance and gait test

To assess the functional deficits in gait and balance after fibular osteoseptocutaneous flap harvest, a case–control study in a hospital‐based biomechanical laboratory was conducted. Eleven patients receiving fibula osteoseptocutaneous flaps were enrolled as study group and 10 age‐matched and healthy subjects as a control group. The average postoperative period at the time of evaluation was 27.4 months (range: 10 to 68 months) and the average age at the time of evaluation was 52.1 years (range: 38 to 76 years). The balance test by Smart Balance Master and gait analysis were used for objective assessment of the donor leg function postoperatively. No statistical differences were observed in the kinetic and kinematic variables of gait analysis except double support time in both the groups. There were also no significant differences in simple static balance test (eyes open, eyes closed, swaying vision, eyes open with swaying surface, and sway‐referenced vision and support). Significant differences were observed in more difficult task (eye closed with swaying support) and in the use of ankle strategy for maintaining maximum balance. In the dynamic balance test only specificity of the forward left direction determined significant difference in reaction time of movement control of gravity. The results of ankle strategy usage and dynamic balance indicated deficits of ankle muscle torque. Necessary postoperative physical training is required for ankle muscle torque and vestibular sense. © 2008 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 27: 555–560, 2009