The purpose of this study was to evaluate the value of regional flap surgery for diabetic foot ulcers combined with infection or bone and tendon exposure.

We reviewed eight patients, nine cases of diabetic foot ulcers, which were treated by regional flap surgery. There were two Wagner's grade 2 ulcers and six Wagner's grade 3 ulcers. We performed four reversed sural artery neurocutaneous flaps, two lateral supramalleolar flaps, two medial plantar artery flaps and one first dorsal metatarsal artery flap.

Seven of nine flaps completely survived after regional flap surgery. One partial and one complete flap necrosis occurred. One partially necrotized flap needed an additional skin graft. One completely necrotized flap needed free rectus abdominis myocutaneous flap surgery. There were two new ulcers, which were treated by free flap surgery. No patient needed amputation above the ankle joint.

Satisfactory results were obtained by regional flap surgery for diabetic foot ulcers. Regional flap surgery is regarded as an effective treatment modality for diabetic foot ulcer combined with bone and tendon exposure with infection.