[Anterolateral thigh flap for distal lower leg reconstruction]

Area of Science:

• Plastic Surgery
• Reconstructive Surgery
• Microsurgery

Background:

• Lower leg soft tissue defects present significant reconstructive challenges.
• Effective coverage requires functional restoration and minimal donor site morbidity.
• Free anterolateral thigh (ALT) flaps offer advantages over traditional flap methods.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy and outcomes of free ALT flap reconstruction for lower leg defects.
• To define the role of ALT flaps in managing complex lower leg injuries.
• To assess functional and aesthetic results, as well as complication rates.

Main Methods:

• Bicentric retrospective study of patients undergoing lower leg reconstruction with free ALT flaps.
• Analysis of defect characteristics, reconstruction details, and outcomes.
• Collection of data on success rates, complications, and long-term aesthetic and functional results.

Main Results:

• 41 patients underwent reconstruction between 2008-2013, primarily for post-traumatic defects (58.5%).
• Average defect size was 191.4 cm², often involving the foot/ankle (61%) with bone exposure (82.9%).
• Success rate was 92.8%, with very good/good functional outcomes in 75.5% and aesthetic outcomes in 63.6%.

Conclusions:

• Free ALT flaps demonstrate reliability and low donor site morbidity for lower leg reconstruction.
• Functional results are comparable to other reconstructive options.
• The flap's versatility makes it suitable for a wide range of lower leg defects.