Free flap reconstruction following lower leg trauma in the presence of rhabdomyolysis

Rhabdomyolysis is considered a relative contra-indication to free tissue transfer because of the formation of free radicals that cause endothelial damage to the microcirculation. We describe the case of a young man who required free tissue transfer coverage of a large open fracture of his right tibia and fibula. This was performed successfully in the presence of rhabdomyolysis.