Versatility of the anterolateral thigh free flap in upper and lower extremities defects coverage reconstruction.
Abstract
IntroductionThe anterolateral thigh free flap is currently one of the most useful reconstructive options. A long pedicle with suitable vessel diameter, reliable anatomy and the availability of different tissues with large amounts of skin make this flap versatile. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the flap versatility in a series of patients with coverage defects in both, the upper and lower limbs.MethodsA retrospective study was performed. Inclusion criteria were patients with defects in the extremities to whom this flap was made as a reconstructive treatment. Preoperative, intraoperative and postoperative variables were analyzed.ResultsTwelve patients (7 men and 5 women) with an average age of 44 years were included. Defects were caused by oncological resection (9 patients) and trauma (3 cases). In 4 cases the defect was in the upper extremity and in 8 cases in the lower extremity. The average time between the defect and the reconstructive surgery was 8 days. The survival rate of the flap was 92%, with only one failure. Donor site presented no complications and primary closure was performed in all cases, except for two requiring closure with skin graft.Conclusions Anterolateral thigh free flap is a valid and very useful resource for coverage of defect of different etiologies in the upper and lower limbs since its versatility allows its successful adaptation in defects of varied location and size.Downloads
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