Abstract
Background The flow-through flap has been widely utilized for reconstruction of complex defects
of the extremities as it can be used for arterial reconstruction and soft-tissue coverage
simultaneously. This study describes our clinical experience with the application
of the flow-through anterolateral thigh perforator (ALTP) flap for reconstruction
of complex defects of the extremities.
Methods From January 2008 to June 2011, we retrospectively analyzed 16 patients with complex
defects in the limbs. In two patients the defects occurred after undergoing wide excision
of chronic ulcer, while 14 defects were due to trauma. All patients in this series
underwent reconstruction with the flow-through ALTP flap. Applications of flow-through
performed include preserving the recipient artery flow, rebuilding the major artery
gap, bridging the artery and concomitant vein simultaneously, and combining the ALTP
with another free flap.
Results Flow-through ALTP flaps were used to preserve recipient flow (n = 5), rebuild the vessel gap (n = 2), bridge the artery and concomitant vein simultaneously (n = 2), and in combination with another free flap (n = 7). Follow-up ranged from 3 to 36 months (mean, 12 months). All flaps were successful;
only two combination flaps required reexploration because of vessel crisis, and two
patients suffered minor degrees of wound-edge necrosis. The donor sites healed well
in all cases, without any complications.
Conclusion Our experience showed that the flow-through ALTP flap is reliable and suitable for
reconstruction of complex defects of the extremities, as well as for various other
clinical purposes.
Keywords
anterolateral thigh perforator flap - flow-through - microsurgery
