Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 13, 2026
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Coronoid-Temporalis Pedicled Flap for Orbital Floor Defect Reconstruction
Published on: December 5, 2025
Our experience with super-thin anterolateral thigh flap for intraoral reconstruction
Attila Füzes1, Szilárd Szanyi2,3,4, Balázs Kovács2
1Multidisciplinary Head and Neck Cancer Center, National Institute of Oncology, 1122 Ráth György Utca 7-9, Budapest, Hungary. fuzes.attila@oncol.hu.
Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
|August 11, 2026
Summary
The anterolateral thigh flap, when thinned, is a viable option for oral cancer reconstruction, offering functional preservation with minimal donor site issues. This technique provides an alternative to traditional methods, improving patient outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
- Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
- Oncology
Background:
- Free flap reconstruction is the standard for extensive oral tumor defects.
- The anterolateral thigh flap is typically used for large defects due to its versatility.
- Adaptation for thinner defects is explored to broaden its application.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of the thinned anterolateral thigh flap for oral cancer reconstruction.
- To compare its outcomes with the radial forearm flap.
Main Methods:
- A pilot study involving 10 patients with oral squamous cell carcinoma.
- Reconstruction using anterolateral thigh flaps harvested in the superficial fascia plane.
- Comparison with 42 radial forearm flap reconstructions.
Main Results:
- All 10 thinned anterolateral thigh flaps healed successfully.
- Average flap thickness was 9.25 mm, pedicle length 11.7 cm.
- No donor site complications occurred, allowing primary closure.
Conclusions:
- The thinned anterolateral thigh flap is suitable for oral cavity reconstruction, ensuring functional preservation.
- It offers comparable thickness and pedicle length to the radial forearm flap.
- Favorable donor site morbidity suggests wider adoption is warranted.