A Safer Way to Harvest a Superthin Perforator Flap.

Area of Science:

• Microsurgery
• Plastic Surgery
• Reconstructive Surgery

Background:

• Advancements in perforasome anatomy and microsurgical techniques allow for thinner flap harvesting.
• The anterolateral thigh perforator flap is a versatile tool for soft-tissue reconstruction.
• Harvesting flaps on the superficial fascia enables the creation of very thin, defect-tailored flaps.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe a revisited, simplified harvesting technique for the superthin anterolateral thigh perforator flap.
• To evaluate the safety, efficacy, and outcomes of this technique in patients with complex soft-tissue defects.

Main Methods:

• A superthin anterolateral thigh perforator flap was harvested on the superficial fascia in 16 patients.
• The technique focused on simplifying dissection for improved safety and speed.
• Patients underwent primary reconstruction for defects resulting from trauma or tumor ablation.

Main Results:

• The superthin anterolateral thigh perforator flaps demonstrated a 100% survival rate.
• Minor complications occurred in 25% of cases; no major complications or flap losses were reported.
• The technique provided excellent aesthetic results and defect-specific tailoring with minimal donor- and recipient-site morbidity.

Conclusions:

• The revisited superthin anterolateral thigh perforator flap harvesting technique is safe and effective for microsurgical reconstruction.
• This approach offers a simple, quick, and reliable method for achieving excellent aesthetic outcomes in complex cases.
• The technique minimizes complications and the need for secondary procedures, enhancing patient recovery.