Outcome of Superior Lateral Genicular Artery Perforator Flap for Reconstruction of Defects Around Knee Joint, in DMCH, Bangladesh

Open Access

Abstract

Background: Knee soft tissue defects from trauma, infection, burns, or tumors are difficult to reconstruct due to limited local tissue and functional demands. The SLGAp flap offers a reliable option with thin, pliable tissue, a constant vascular pedicle, and good functional outcomes, avoiding the bulk of conventional flaps. Objective: To assess the outcomes of superior lateral genicular artery perforator flap reconstruction for defects around the knee joint. Methods & Materials: This prospective observational study was conducted in the Department of Plastic Surgery, Dhaka Medical College Hospital (June 2024–September 2025). Sixty patients with knee soft tissue defects were purposively sampled. All underwent reconstruction using the superior lateral genicular artery perforator (SLGAp) flap under anesthesia, with intraoperative flap measurements. Follow-up on days 5, 14, 30, and 90 assessed viability, complications, and outcomes. Data were analyzed in SPSS v27. Results: Among 60 patients (mean age 31.5 ± 13.93 years; 76.66% male), 80.00% had no co-morbidities. The mean flap size was 66.66 ± 18.67 cm². No flap loss occurred in 80.00% of cases; marginal and partial loss were seen in 13.33% and 6.66%, respectively, with no complete loss. Complications were minimal, with 83.33% having none. Full knee motion was achieved in 83.33% of patients. Good, satisfactory, and poor outcomes were observed in 70.00%, 16.70%, and 13.33% of cases, respectively. Conclusion: The superior lateral genicular artery perforator flap is a safe and reliable option for effective reconstruction of knee joint defects with favorable functional and clinical outcomes.