Reconstruction of complex defects in extremities with the chimeric multi-paddled anterolateral thigh perforator flap / 中华显微外科杂志

ABSTRACT

Objective:To investigate the feasibility and clinical effects of the chimeric multi-paddled anteriolateral thigh perforator flap (ALTP) for reconstruction of complex defects in extremities, which was pedicled with the descending branch of lateral circumflex femoral artery (d-LCFA).Methods:From August, 2010 to December, 2017, 11 cases of severe soft-tissue defects were repaired with this flap, including 4 cases of car accident trauma, 2 of machine injury, 2 of fall injuries, 1 of ploughing machine injury, 1 of crushing injury, and 1 of spoke injury. The injuries accompanied with different degrees of infections, dead space and left huge soft-tissue defects after radical debridement (10.0 cm×9.0 cm-20.0 cm×18.0 cm) . Dead cavity was filled by the muscular flap, and the large area soft-tissue defects were repaired by chimeric multi-paddled perforator flap. Appearance, colour and texture of the flap, recurrence of infection and knee extension were recorded at 1, 3, 6, 9 and 12 months follow-up.Results:After the operation, all recipient sites had no hematoma and no infection. Eight flaps survived successfully, and donor sites healed primarily. One flap had partial necrosis because of a mechanical stretch of the perforator during the operation, then repaired by the ipsilateral chimeric perforator flap based on d-LCFA. One flap occurred vascular crisis on the second day after the surgery, and it was rescued and survived completely after surgical exploration. The other flap which repaired wound on hand had partial necrosis too, and then repaired with posterior interosseous artery perforator flap. The follow-up periods ranged from 2 to 32 (mean, 10.2) months. All flaps had satisfactory appearance and texture. Only linear scars left at the donor sites. There were no motion limitations at the hip and knee joints of the effected leg.Conclusion:The anteriolateral thigh perforator flap combined with multi-paddled and chimeric techniques can reduce donor site morbidities, simplify the anastomosis of blood vessel, and improve the appearance and effects of the recipient site. It is a feasible method in repairing severe soft tissue defects of limbs.