Soft Tissue Reconstruction Using Anterolateral Thigh Flap with Fascia Lata Component

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: The anterolateral thigh flap is versatile flap for soft-tissue reconstruction for defects located at various sites of the body. This useful flap offers a thick and vascular fascia lata component with large amounts that can be soft tissue coverage for different reconstructive purposes. We present our clinical experience with the use of vascular fascia lata, combined with anterolateral thigh flap for various reconstructive goals. METHODS: From April 2008 to February 2011, we transferred anterolateral thigh flaps with fascia lata component to reconstruct soft-tissue defects for different purposes in 11 patients. The fascia lata component of the flap was used for tendon gliding surface in hand/forearm reconstruction in 4 patients, for reconstruction medial and lateral patellar synovial membrane and retinaculum in 2 patients, for reconstruction of plantar aponeurosis in the foot in 2 patients, for reconstruction of fascial and peritoneal defect in the abdominal wall in 2 patient, and for dural defect reconstruction in the scalp in the remaining one. RESULTS: Complete loss of the flap was not seen in all cases. Partial flap necrosis occurred in 2 patients. These complications were treated successfully with minimal surgical debridement and dressing. Infection occurred in 1 patient. In this case, intravenous antibiotics treatment was effective. CONCLUSION: Anterolateral thigh flap has thick vascular fascia with large amounts. This fascial component of the flap is useful for different reconstructive aims, such as for tendon, ligament, aponeurosis defects, abdominal wall or dura reconstruction. It should be considerated as an important advantage of the flap, together with other well-known advantages.