Anterolateral Thigh Flap for Acute/Primary Burn Reconstruction

Area of Science:

• Plastic Surgery
• Microsurgery
• Burn Reconstruction

Background:

• Free flap reconstruction in burn patients has specific indications to avoid common complications.
• The anterolateral thigh (ALT) flap is proposed as a primary option for acute burn reconstruction.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy and safety of the anterolateral thigh (ALT) flap for primary microvascular free flap reconstruction in burned patients.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective review of 30 microvascular ALT free flap reconstructions in acutely burned patients (2005-2022).
• Analysis of patient demographics, burn etiology, surgical timing, recipient sites, and flap outcomes.

Main Results:

• Successful reconstruction in 30 patients with a 96.6% flap survival rate.
• High-voltage electrical burns were the most common etiology; lower limb was the main recipient site.
• Minor complications included peripheral flap necrosis (requiring skin graft), mild congestion, and local infection, all managed successfully.

Conclusions:

• The anterolateral thigh (ALT) flap offers significant advantages for primary burn reconstruction in selected patients.
• Adherence to specific surgical techniques and postoperative management is crucial for optimal outcomes.
• The ALT flap is recommended as the preferred first option for free flap primary burn reconstruction.