The free thigh flap: a new free flap concept based on the septocutaneous artery

Based on the septocutaneous artery flap concept, the thigh, which is the commonest conventional donor site for split-skin grafts, can also become a donor area for skin flaps. The thigh flap, with its large and long neuro-vascular pedicle, can be used either as a free flap or as an island flap as an alternative to the lower abdominal flap, groin flap, tensor fasciae latae myocutaneous flap, sartorius myocutaneous flap or the gracilis myocutaneous flap. The anatomical basis, operative technique and characteristics of the thigh flap are discussed.