The spreaded gracilis flap revisited: Comparing outcomes in lower limb reconstruction

Background In lower limb reconstruction, the free gracilis muscle flap is usually chosen for coverage of small‐ to medium‐sized defects. Aim of this study was a re‐appraisal regarding the reconstructive indications of the gracilis muscle flap with a focus on postoperative complications in order to evaluate if it can also be routinely used to reconstruct large‐size lower limb defects. Methods A total of 204 patients underwent free gracilis muscle transfers for lower limb reconstruction at our institution. Cases were divided according to the size of the defect into two groups (