Gluteus myocutaneous flap repairs ischial pressure sores

Treatment of ischial pressure sores by a gluteus maximus myocutaneous advancement-rotation flap is reported. A triangular cut is made around the sore prior to excision. The sore is repaired by a myocutaneous flap of gluteus maximus. Over a period of three years, we have successfully treated 11 patients, average age 39 years, by using this procedure. Because this flap is well vascularized, good coverage of the ischial bone is ensured. The use of this flap seems to be appropriate in young patients affected by paraplegia especially in cases of flaccid paraplegia. The scarring is minimal and does not preclude other surgical treatments in case of recurrence.