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Bilateral anterolateral thigh flaps for large-volume breast reconstruction
Jason J Rosenberg1, Rajiv Chandawarkar, Merrick I Ross
1Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA.
Microsurgery
|July 27, 2004
Summary
Bilateral free anterolateral thigh flaps offer a viable solution for large breast reconstruction when TRAM flaps are unsuitable. This technique provides ample tissue with minimal donor-site morbidity, though it may result in more noticeable scarring.
Area of Science:
- Plastic Surgery
- Reconstructive Surgery
- Microsurgery
Background:
- Autologous breast reconstruction for large defects presents challenges, especially for patients ineligible for Transverse Rectus Abdominis Myocutaneous (TRAM) flaps.
- Alternative methods are needed to address the difficulties in achieving satisfactory outcomes in such cases.
Observation:
- This case report details the successful use of bilateral free anterolateral thigh (ALT) flaps for immediate, unilateral large breast reconstruction.
- The patient had a history of prior abdominoplasty, making TRAM flap reconstruction unsuitable.
Findings:
- Bilateral free ALT flaps provide ample, malleable soft tissue suitable for breast reconstruction.
- This technique allows for simultaneous work by multiple surgical teams and avoids intraoperative patient repositioning.
- Donor-site morbidity is minimal compared to other options like gluteal flaps, although scarring is more conspicuous.
Implications:
- Free ALT flaps represent a valuable alternative for breast reconstruction in select patients, offering technical advantages and good tissue volume.
- Consideration of donor-site scarring is necessary when planning this reconstructive approach.