Cadaveric study using radio-opaque contrast to determine arterial communication between the two bellies of gastrocnemius muscles

Conclusion: This study supports the future application of inferior-based hemigastrocnemius muscles flap to cover defects of middle third leg. When distally based hemigastrocnemius flap is planned roughly 1/3rd of distal attachment or distal 3.79 cm of connection between raphe should be maintained to preserve the vascular communications between the two bellies.
Source: Indian Journal of Plastic Surgery - Category: Cosmetic Surgery Authors: Source Type: research