Proximal femoral resection and Tensor Fascia Lata flap for recalcitrant trochanteric pressure ulcers

Trochanteric pressure ulcers are difficult to treat, especially when they're complicated by infection that spreads to the hip joint. This paper presents a surgical approach using proximal femoral resection and a Tensor Fascia Lata (TFL) flap to manage these infected ulcers. The surgical protocol involves removing part of the femur, cleaning the ulcer, and then using a TFL flap to cover the resulting raw area. This method aims to provide adequate muscle bulk to fill the cavities and promote healing. Three male patients with spinal cord injuries and severe trochanteric ulcers were treated using this method. The results showed complete healing of the ulcers, improved wheelchair mobility, and overall better health.

• 1
  Proximal femoral resection with pedicled TFL muscle flap is an effective procedure for covering difficult trochanteric pressure ulcers that involve the hip joint.
• 2
  The procedure leads to complete healing of the ulcers and improves the patients' general health and wheelchair mobility.
• 3
  The donor site morbidity associated with the TFL flap is minimal.