Soft Tissue Management and Obtention of Reliable Wound Coverage in Fracture-Related Infection
摘要
Achieving reliable wound coverage in fracture-related infections (FRI) is essential to prevent reinfection and support effective bone healing. This chapter presents strategies for ensuring adequate soft tissue coverage in FRI, highlighting both timing and methods. Key considerations include whether coverage should be performed immediately with debridement or staged. Flap selection is also critical, depending on defect characteristics, location, and patient characteristics. While pedicled flaps offer a quick, straightforward option, they may not always be feasible, necessitating the use of free flaps—fasciocutaneous, muscular, or combined. Additionally, the need for skeletal reconstruction influences both timing and choice of reconstructive techniques. A multidisciplinary approach and timely intervention are emphasized to improve outcomes in FRI management.