Reconstruction of oncologic defects

A wide array of benign and malignant tumors can affect the lower extremities, from benign soft tissue tumors to osteosarcomas, soft tissue sarcomas, and cutaneous malignancies [1, 2]. The reconstructive surgeon is frequently called upon to close large defects spanning multiple tissue layers. Historically, limb amputation was the standard of care, but new therapies and reconstructive advances have ushered in an era of limb salvage. Restoration of form and function remains the most basic reconstructive principle applied to the patient requiring oncologic resection, and it is especially important in the lower extremity, given the goal of painless ambulation following recovery.