Objective: To evaluate the effects of lower limb rehabilitation training of the patients with free fibula flap.
Methods: Fifth-nine patients with free fibula flap were assigned to the intervention group (28 cases) and control group (31 cases). The patients in the intervention group underwent the lower limb rehabilitation training, but there was no training plan for the control group. The function of lower limbs were evaluated by Enneking questionnaire and physical examinations before operation, and 2 weeks and each month after operation till six months.
Results: The rate of ankle swelling in the intervention group (61%) was significantly lower than in the control group (84%) at the 3rd month after operation (P < 0.05). In the intervention group, the scores of ankle varus, valgus, muscle power of the great toe, the Enneking scores of self-feeling, walking ability and total scores were significantly higher than in the control group (P < 0.05).
Conclusions: Postoperative rehabilitation training can promote the recovery of lower limb function for the patients with free fibula flap.