Anterolateral thigh flow-through flap for reconstruction of soft tissue defect in the extremities / 中华显微外科杂志

ABSTRACT

Objective Retrospectively investigate the application of anterolateral thigh flow-through flap in reconstruction of the extremities,to estimate its role and characteriscts.Methods From March,2010 to January,2016,anterolateral thigh flow-through flap was performed for reconstruction of the extremities in 87 patients (56 males,and 31 females).Patient ages ranged from 13 to 68 years,average of 34.4 years.Of all cases,there were 37 legs,21 ankles or foots,1 arm,19 forearms,and 9 hands.The role and result of anterolateral thigh flow-through flap was analyzed retrospectively.Results The result showed that when anterolateral thigh flow-through flap was transferred,which simutaneously played various roles as follows①rebuilding main vascular defect,to revascularise the distal limb.② preserving recipient vessels,to prevent flow impaired.③rebulding recepient vessel defect.④ protecting vascular anastomosis and preserving recipient flow simultaneously.⑤avoiding the dilemma of end-to-side anastomosis when recipient vessels is deep.⑥ balancing blood flow,the blood supply of the flap was more stable.⑦ linking another tissue in a series fashion,to achieve complex reconstruction.Vascular compromise occurred in 3 cases after surgery,total necrosis occurred in 1 case and partial necrosis in 1 case after reexploration.One case presented deep infection and secondary with renal failure,and received amputation.Local infection presented in 3 cases,wound dehiscence in 2 cases.All the other flaps survivled uneventfully,and its texture and color was normal.In donor site,local infection occurred in 1 case,wound dehiscence in 2 cases.Conclusion Anterolateral thigh flow-through flap has function of many sided reconstruction,which is able to play a vital role in reconstruction of the extremities.