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Muscle herniation: a complication at the anterolateral thigh perforator flap donor site
1Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Mount Vernon Hospital, Northwood, Middlesex HA6 2RN, UK. everjoyous@aol.com
Abstract:
The anterolateral perforator flap is becoming the flap of choice for a wide variety of complex defects. It has been known to provide excellent donor site morbidity even in cases where vastus lateralis is included within the flap. We report a case of herniation of the vastus lateralis and rectus femoris muscles through the overlying fascia, following ALT perforator flap harvest. In this case muscle herniation at the donor site required surgical repair.
Insights
The anterolateral thigh (ALT) perforator flap is a popular choice for complex defects. However, a rare complication of muscle herniation at the donor site required surgical repair in this case.
Area of Science:
- Reconstructive surgery
- Microsurgery
- Plastic surgery
Background:
- The anterolateral thigh (ALT) perforator flap is increasingly utilized for complex reconstructive procedures.
- It is generally associated with low donor site morbidity, even when incorporating the vastus lateralis muscle.
Observation:
- A case of muscle herniation involving the vastus lateralis and rectus femoris muscles was observed.
- This complication occurred at the donor site following ALT perforator flap harvest.
Findings:
- The study reports a rare instance of muscle herniation through the fascia at the ALT perforator flap donor site.
- Surgical intervention was necessary to repair the herniated muscles.
Implications:
- This case highlights a potential, albeit uncommon, donor site complication associated with ALT perforator flap surgery.
- Awareness and prompt surgical management are crucial for addressing muscle herniation following ALT flap harvest.
