Related Experiment Videos
Lateral thigh flap reconstruction in the head and neck
1Department of Otolaryngology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, USA.
Summary
The lateral thigh free flap, based on deep femoral vessels, is a reliable option for reconstructing large defects. This study found it successful in most cases with minimal patient morbidity.
Area of Science:
- Plastic Surgery
- Reconstructive Surgery
- Microsurgery
Background:
- The lateral thigh free flap is a fasciocutaneous flap utilizing cutaneous perforators of the deep femoral vessels.
- Despite its description in 1983, literature reports on this flap are scarce.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the lateral thigh free flap anatomy and surgical technique.
- To report outcomes from cadaveric and clinical studies of the flap.
Main Methods:
- Evaluation of flap anatomy in nine cadavers (18 thighs).
- Analysis of 33 clinical cases involving lateral thigh free flap reconstruction.
- Assessment of flap success rates, complications, and defect types.
Main Results:
- The vascular pedicle was consistently present, though its position varied.
- Successful flap transfer was achieved in 30 out of 33 clinical cases.
- Flap loss in four cases was primarily due to infection, fistula, and hematoma.
Conclusions:
- The lateral thigh free flap is a reliable reconstructive option, particularly for large defects like total or base-of-tongue defects.
- The flap demonstrates a low morbidity profile.
- Further clinical reports are warranted to solidify its place in reconstructive surgery.