Abstract
OBJECTIVE: Rectus femoris flaps (RFFs) provide tissue coverage in infected fields and historically have been performed by plastic surgeons. METHODS: We report the technique and outcomes following vascular surgeon-performed RFFs for postoperative groin complications. RESULTS: Sixty-three RFFs were performed in 54 patients. The median follow-up was 728 days. RFF complication, defined as a composite of flap-related readmission and infection, was 26.7% at 30 days. Diabetes mellitus was a risk factor of RFF complications (odds ratio [OR], 27.9; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.3-582.6; P = .032); prolonged duration of intravenous antibiotics (OR, 0.6; 95% CI, 0.5-0.9; P = .004) and use of beta blocker (OR, 0.0; 95% CI, 0.0-0.2; P = .003) were associated with decreased risks of 30-day RFF complication. Amputation-free survival was 100% at 30 days and 90.2% at 1 year. CONCLUSIONS: Our findings support the role of vascular surgeons in using RFF as a safe and effective option for the management of infected groin wounds.