Soft-tissue management and reconstruction of lower-extremity trauma

Soft-tissue management and subsequent salvage of the lower extremity following trauma has long presented difficult challenges to the plastic surgeon. Trauma to the lower extremity can produce long-term sequelae consisting of psychological trauma, functional deficits, and increased costs to the healthcare system. Avoiding incorrect management is important, and is compounded by the fact that few guidelines exist on appropriate treatment and patient counseling. This study aims to describe the authors’ experience at a large limb salvage center in order to further delineate management strategies.