Free vascularized fibular flap in distal radius reconstruction

Free vascularized bone transfers are indicated to reconstruct large bone loss, either after traumatism or bone tumor resection. Free vascularized fibular transplant is particularly well designed for reconstruction of large defect of the distal radius. Anatomy is constant and harvesting is versatile and reliable. It may be used as bony transplant alone, osteocutaneous or osteocutaneomuscular. The length of the fibula harvested can be up to 25 cm. In children bone reconstruction, the proximal physis of the fibula can be transferred to allow secondary bone growth but there is a need for double anastomosis of the anteriotibial and the fibular bundles. Donor site sequelae are minimal.