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Updated: Jan 1, 2026
A Revised Method for Inducing Secondary Lymphedema in the Hindlimb of Mice
Published on: November 2, 2019
Lymphoedema rates in pedicled anterolateral thigh flaps for coverage of irradiated groin defects
Sibon K Fuzzard1, Eldon Mah1, Peter F M Choong2
1Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, St Vincent's Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.
Background:
Limb salvage surgery in conjunction with adjuvant radiotherapy is the preferred treatment for soft tissue sarcoma. This study aims to determine if ipsilateral pedicled anterolateral thigh (ALT) flap reconstruction of groin defects post soft tissue sarcoma resection results in acceptable rates of lymphoedema, while also providing good soft tissue cover and minimal donor site morbidity.
Methods:
A retrospective chart audit was conducted with ethics approval, obtaining a case series of 16 patients operated on at a single institution by the senior surgeon. Patients who underwent ipsilateral pedicled ALT flap coverage of irradiated groin defects following soft tissue sarcoma resection were included. Comparative six-point limb circumference measurements were utilized to diagnose lymphoedema, with a difference of 10% when compared to the non-operative side being deemed significant.
Results:
Lymphoedema was noted in three patients (18.8%) with an average follow-up period of 40.9 (range 8-59) months.
Conclusion:
Previously published lymphoedema rates in sarcoma limb salvage surgery of 15.5-30% are comparable to the rates obtained in this cohort. Lymphoedema rates do not appear to be higher in patients undergoing ipsilateral pedicled ALT flap reconstruction, thus making it a useful soft tissue coverage technique in this cohort.
