Application of anterolateral thigh free flap with multiple perforators descending from lateral circumflex femoral artery in reconstruction of complex defects of children extremities / 中华显微外科杂志

ABSTRACT

Objective To investigate the application of anterolateral thigh (ALT) free flap preserving multiple perforators descending from lateral circumflex femoral artery (LCFA) in reconstruction of complex defects of children extremities.Methods From January,2016 to January,2017,7 children admitted with soft tissue defects were reconstructed with ALT free flap preserving multiple perforitors descending from LCFA.According to body surface projection and distribution patterns of perforators descending from LCFA,preoperative portable Doppler was used to localize these perforators.Fascia lata harvest was spared for those without ligament and articular joint reconstruction.Defects and fascia lata was closed primarily.All patients were followed up at regular intervals.Results Follow-up period was 3-9 months(mean,6.5 months.Follow-up methods include on-site follow-up,wechat follow-up,telephone follow-up,etc.).The color of ALT flaps was normal.The texture of ALT flap was good.The linear scar in donor sites was found.The paresthesia around incision in donor sites was complained of.Postoperative appearance and function of injured limbs was satisfactory.Conclusion Design of Unipaddled or multipaddled ALT free flap with multiple perforators descending from LCFA is flexible.Perforators are thick and consistent.ALT flap with multiple perforators descending from LCFA is an ideal one to be used in reconstruction of complex soft tissue defects.