Anterolateral thigh flow-through flap in hand salvage

Hand salvage and reconstruction following trauma and oncologic resection often dictates the use of innovative reconstructive techniques. Preservation of functional anatomy is paramount to success in this clinical setting. Further constraints are placed on the reconstructive surgeon in the setting of the aging US population. We report a case of successful hand salvage in an elderly patient using a free anterolateral thigh flow-through flap.

A retrospective chart review was performed on prospectively entered data to examine the case in detail. Indications, radiographs, and follow-up visits were reviewed. A free anterolateral thigh flap was harvested and used to provide soft tissue coverage as well as reconstruction of the palmar arch.

The free anterolateral thigh flap not only reconstructed the unique soft tissue envelope of the hand but also restored functional vascular anatomy by reconstituting the interrupted superficial palmar arch. The patient had an uneventful hospital course and was discharged without complications.

The free anterolateral thigh flap is a versatile flap that can be used as an innovative solution for hand salvage where vascular anatomy and soft tissue need to be restored.