Anterolateral thigh flap transferred with iliotibial tract for coverage of complicated forearm wounds / 中华创伤杂志

ABSTRACT

Objective To introduce the transfer of anterolateral thigh flap with iliotibial tract in repair of massive skin and soft tissue defects of the forearm and reconstruction of extension or flexion of the forearm. Methods Eight cases of complicated raw wounds of the forearm were repaired with transfer of anterolateral thigh flap with iliotibial tract. Flexor tendons of 3 cases and extensor tendons of 5 cases were repaired with iliotibial tract. The axial vessel of the flap was used to rebuild blood supply of the hand. Results All the flaps survived completely. A follow-up ranging from 3 months to 2.5 years re- vealed that the reconstructed forearms were good in appearance and soft in texture and restored protective sensation. Affected limbs could perform extension or flexion. Total range of motion (TRM) of the hands was excellent in 6 cases and poor in 2. Conclusion Anterolateral thigh flap with iliotibial tract can not only repair soft tissue defects of the forearm, but also reconstruct the main extension or flexion of the forearm simultaneously.