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Engineered Vascularized Muscle Flap
Published on: January 11, 2016
Efficient design of split anterolateral thigh flap in extremity reconstruction
Nai-Jen Chang1, Nicholas Waughlock, Dennis Kao
1Taipei, Taiwan From the Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chang Gung Medical College and Chang Gung University.
Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
|November 19, 2011
Summary
The split anterolateral thigh flap effectively reconstructs complex limb defects. This technique minimizes donor site complications and reduces the need for skin grafts in extremity reconstruction.
Area of Science:
- Plastic Surgery
- Reconstructive Surgery
- Microsurgery
Background:
- Irregular and 3D extremity defects pose reconstructive challenges.
- The anterolateral thigh flap (ALT) is versatile for soft-tissue coverage.
- Splitting the ALT flap based on perforators allows for complex defect reconstruction.
Observation:
- Fifteen patients with limb defects underwent split ALT flap reconstruction.
- Defect shapes included arrow, hourglass, triangular, and 3D.
- The mean patient age was 40.6 years.
Findings:
- All 31 split ALT flaps survived without vascular compromise.
- Two flaps had minor margin necrosis; no critical structures were exposed.
- Only one donor site required a skin graft; others achieved primary closure.
Implications:
- The split ALT flap is an effective method for complex extremity defect coverage.
- This technique optimizes flap utilization, reducing waste.
- It minimizes donor site morbidity and the need for skin grafting.
