Soft Tissue Coverage in Distal Lower Extremity Open Fractures: Comparison of Free Anterolateral Thigh and Free Latissimus Dorsi Flaps

2017 ◽  
Vol 34 (02) ◽  
pp. 121-129 ◽  
Author(s):  
Pierre Moullot ◽  
André M. Gay ◽  
Baptiste Bertrand ◽  
Régis Legré ◽  
Nathalie Kerfant ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Lower Extremity ◽  
Lower Limb ◽  
Functional Outcomes ◽  
Free Flaps ◽  
Open Fractures ◽  
Soft Tissue Coverage ◽  
Aesthetic Outcome ◽  
Anterolateral Thigh ◽  
Alt Flap

Background When microsurgical transfers are required in posttraumatic lower limb reconstruction, surgeons must choose among many types of free flaps. Historically, surgeons have advocated muscular flaps for coverage of open lower extremity wounds, but fasciocutaneous free flaps are now often used with good results. This study aimed to compare the functional and aesthetic outcome of reconstruction by free muscular latissimus dorsi (LD) flap and free fasciocutaneous anterolateral thigh (ALT) flap used for soft tissue coverage of distal lower extremity open fractures. Methods We performed a single-center, retrospective study of subjects with distal lower limb open fractures treated with LD flaps or ALT flaps between 2008 and 2014. Patients with limited follow-up or incomplete data were excluded from the analysis. Donor and recipient sites, early complications and long-term outcomes (functional and aesthetic) were studied and compared according to the type of flap. Results A total of 47 patients were included: 27 patients in the LD flap group and 20 patients in the ALT flap group. No significant difference was found regarding early and late complications and long-term functional outcomes (bone healing, infectious bone complications, flap healing). As for aesthetic outcome and donor-site morbidity, reconstruction using the ALT free flap had significantly better results (p < 0.05). Conclusions In posttraumatic lower limb injury, either LD or ALT free flaps can be used for wound coverage with comparable long-term functional outcomes. The ALT flap provides better cosmetic results than LD.

Microsurgical Reconstruction of the Plantar Foot: Long-Term Functional Outcomes and Quality of Life

2019 ◽  
Vol 35 (05) ◽  
pp. 379-388
Author(s):  
Paul Heidekrueger ◽  
Denis Ehrl ◽  
Lukas Prantl ◽  
Aung Thiha ◽  
Fabian Weinschenk ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Functional Outcomes ◽  
Weight Bearing ◽  
Free Flaps ◽  
Scar Assessment ◽  
Anterolateral Thigh ◽  
Long Term Follow Up ◽  
Alt Flap

Background When faced with plantar defects, reconstruction of the weight-bearing areas presents unique surgical challenges. Several free flap modalities have been described in this respect, but there remains debate regarding the best-suited flap modality. Aim of this study was to compare free muscle and non-neurotized fasciocutaneous flaps for plantar reconstruction with respect to long-term functional outcomes. Methods Overall, 89 patients received 100 free flaps (anterolateral thigh [ALT] n = 46; gracilis n = 54) for plantar reconstruction. The data were screened for patients' demographics, as well as perioperative details. Postoperative complications were accounted for and the two groups compared accordingly. All patients were contacted for a long-term follow-up examination. Results There were no significant differences between the two groups regarding major (24 vs. 17%; p = 0.366) and minor surgical complications (61 vs. 70%; p = 0.318). However, the ALT group showed a significantly higher need for secondary surgeries (39 vs. 19%; p = 0.022). Sixty-eight patients (76%) returned for long-term follow-up evaluation (mean: 51.2 months, range: 13–71 months). The ALT group showed significantly less pain at the recipient (p = 0.0004) and donor (p = 0.010) sites, and scar assessment revealed significantly better results (p < 0.001). Additionally, the ALT group showed better depth (p = 0.017) and superficial (p = 0.007) sensation and enabled better shoe provision (p = 0.014). Conclusion Both the free ALT and gracilis flaps are well suited for plantar reconstruction, yielding overall similar functional outcomes. However, the ALT flap produces less scarring and pain, while showing better recovery of sensation and enabling better shoe provision. The ALT flap thus presents our preferred option.

Soft Tissue Reconstruction

2020 ◽  
pp. 63-74
Keyword(s):  
Soft Tissue ◽  
Lower Limb ◽  
Donor Site ◽  
Free Flaps ◽  
Donor Site Morbidity ◽  
Open Fractures ◽  
Soft Tissue Coverage ◽  
Soft Tissue Reconstruction ◽  
Tissue Reconstruction ◽  
Wound Excision

Soft tissue coverage of open fractures with well-vascularised tissues should be performed within 72 hours of injury or at the same time as internal fixation. It may be in the form of local or free flaps, and may comprise muscle, fasciocutaneous tissues, or both. Flap selection depends on multiple factors, including the size and location of the defect following wound excision, availability of flaps, and donor site morbidity. Local flaps are usually used to cover defects with a limited zone of injury. Anastomoses for free flaps should be performed outside the zone of injury. Experimental data suggest that coverage with muscle leads to improved healing of fractures. However, there is currently little clinical evidence to support the use of one form of soft tissue cover over another for open fractures of the lower limb. The plastic surgeon must always consider the donor site morbidity of the flap(s) chosen.

ANTEROLATERAL THIGH FLAP IN LOWER LIMB RECONSTRUCTION

2019 ◽  
pp. 44-48
Author(s):  
Hong Phuc Le ◽  
Thiet Son Tran ◽  
Nghi Thanh Nhan Le
Keyword(s):  
Lower Limb ◽  
Free Flaps ◽  
Anterolateral Thigh Flap ◽  
Soft Tissue Defects ◽  
Fasciocutaneous Flaps ◽  
Limb Reconstruction ◽  
Anterolateral Thigh ◽  
Lower Limb Reconstruction ◽  
Alt Flap ◽  
Tissue Defects

Introduction: Anterolateral thigh flap is one of the most researched and widely used perforator flaps in the recent decades in plastic surgery as a whole and in limb reconstruction, especially in cases with complex deflects, in particular. This report aimed to evaluate anterolateral thigh flap in reconstruction of complex lower limb soft tissue defects. Subjects and methods: From August 2014 to August 2015, at Hue University of Medicine and Pharmacy Hospital, 12 cases with complex soft tissue defects in lower limb were reconstructed and covered with ALT flaps: two distal based pedicle ALT flaps for popliteal and around knee joint defects and 10 composite ALT free flaps for lower leg reconstruction. Results: Twelve flaps used included: two peripheral pedicled fasciocutaneous flaps, ten complex free flaps (01 complex myo-fasciocutaneous flap providing muscle for deep space filled, fascial for tendon reconstruction and surface covering of the defect; 05 vastus lareralis myocutaneous flaps providing muscle for dead space filling and covering; 04 fasciocutaneous flaps involving the fascia lata for fascial reconstruction and covering). The size of flaps ranged from 8 to 27cm in length and from 6 to 13cm in width. The largest flap was 240cm2,the smallest was 50cm2. All 12 flaps survived. Short-term results at one month after surgery were consideredas good in eleven patients and fair in one patient. There were no special complications at donor sites. Paresthesia at the donor site was noted in two cases. Conclusion: ALT flap with its versatility as peripheral pedicled flap or free flap can be used in lower limb reconstruction with high success rate of 100% (12/12). Preoperative skin perforator mapping by Doppler was highly accurate (12/12) compared with intraoperative findings. Complex free ALT flap is suitable for reconstruction of major defects involving different type of tissue in lower limb with satisfied results. Key words: Anterolateral thigh flap, limb, ower limb

ANTEROLATERAL THIGH FLAP IN LOWER LIMB RECONSTRUCTION

2019 ◽  
pp. 44-48
Author(s):  
Hong Phuc Le ◽  
Thiet Son Tran ◽  
Nghi Thanh Nhan Le
Keyword(s):  
Lower Limb ◽  
Free Flaps ◽  
Anterolateral Thigh Flap ◽  
Soft Tissue Defects ◽  
Fasciocutaneous Flaps ◽  
Limb Reconstruction ◽  
Anterolateral Thigh ◽  
Lower Limb Reconstruction ◽  
Alt Flap ◽  
Tissue Defects

Introduction: Anterolateral thigh flap is one of the most researched and widely used perforator flaps in the recent decades in plastic surgery as a whole and in limb reconstruction, especially in cases with complex deflects, in particular. This report aimed to evaluate anterolateral thigh flap in reconstruction of complex lower limb soft tissue defects. Subjects and methods: From August 2014 to August 2015, at Hue University of Medicine and Pharmacy Hospital, 12 cases with complex soft tissue defects in lower limb were reconstructed and covered with ALT flaps: two distal based pedicle ALT flaps for popliteal and around knee joint defects and 10 composite ALT free flaps for lower leg reconstruction. Results: Twelve flaps used included: two peripheral pedicled fasciocutaneous flaps, ten complex free flaps (01 complex myo-fasciocutaneous flap providing muscle for deep space filled, fascial for tendon reconstruction and surface covering of the defect; 05 vastus lareralis myocutaneous flaps providing muscle for dead space filling and covering; 04 fasciocutaneous flaps involving the fascia lata for fascial reconstruction and covering). The size of flaps ranged from 8 to 27cm in length and from 6 to 13cm in width. The largest flap was 240cm2,the smallest was 50cm2. All 12 flaps survived. Short-term results at one month after surgery were consideredas good in eleven patients and fair in one patient. There were no special complications at donor sites. Paresthesia at the donor site was noted in two cases. Conclusion: ALT flap with its versatility as peripheral pedicled flap or free flap can be used in lower limb reconstruction with high success rate of 100% (12/12). Preoperative skin perforator mapping by Doppler was highly accurate (12/12) compared with intraoperative findings. Complex free ALT flap is suitable for reconstruction of major defects involving different type of tissue in lower limb with satisfied results. Key words: Anterolateral thigh flap, limb, ower limb

Improving Outcomes in Anterolateral Thigh Flap Donor-Site Reconstruction Using Propeller Flaps: A Retrospective Comparative Study with Skin Grafting

2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Domenico Pagliara ◽  
Maria Lucia Mangialardi ◽  
Stefano Vitagliano ◽  
Valentina Pino ◽  
Marzia Salgarello
Keyword(s):  
Comparative Study ◽  
Skin Graft ◽  
Donor Site ◽  
Split Thickness Skin Graft ◽  
Tactile Sensitivity ◽  
Aesthetic Outcome ◽  
Propeller Flap ◽  
Thickness Skin ◽  
Anterolateral Thigh ◽  
Alt Flap

Abstract Background After anterolateral thigh (ALT) flap harvesting, skin graft of the donor site is commonly performed. When the defect width exceeds 8 cm or 16% of thigh circumference, it can determine lower limb function impairment and poor aesthetic outcomes. In our comparative study, we assessed the functional and aesthetic outcomes related to ALT donor-site closure with split-thickness skin graft compared with thigh propeller flap. Methods We enrolled 60 patients with ALT flap donor sites. We considered two groups of ALT donor-site reconstructions: graft group (30 patients) with split-thickness skin graft and flap group (30 patients) with local perforator-based propeller flap. We assessed for each patient the range of motion (ROM) at the hip and knee, tension, numbness, paresthesia, tactile sensitivity, and gait. Regarding the impact on daily life activities, patients completed the lower extremity functional scale (LEFS) questionnaire. Patient satisfaction for aesthetic outcome was obtained with a 5-point Likert scale (from very poor to excellent). Results In the propeller flap group, the ROMs of hip and knee and the LEFS score were significantly higher. At 12-month follow-up, in the graft group, 23 patients reported tension, 19 numbness, 16 paresthesia, 22 reduction of tactile sensitivity, and 5 alteration of gait versus only 5 patients experienced paresthesia and 7 reduction of tactile sensitivity in the propeller flap group. The satisfaction for aesthetic outcome was significantly higher in the propeller flap group. Conclusion In high-tension ALT donor-site closure, the propeller perforator flap should always be considered to avoid split-thickness skin graft with related functional and aesthetic poor results.

scholarly journals Long-Term Outcome after Successful Lower Extremity Free Flap Salvage

2018 ◽  
Vol 35 (04) ◽  
pp. 263-269 ◽  
Author(s):  
Amir Bigdeli ◽  
Emre Gazyakan ◽  
Volker Schmidt ◽  
Christoph Bauer ◽  
Günter Germann ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Lower Extremity ◽  
Free Flap ◽  
Free Flaps ◽  
Term Outcome ◽  
Long Term Outcome ◽  
Component Score ◽  
Sf 36 ◽  
The Mean

Background Vascular occlusion after free flap surgery has become a rare complication but still poses a major challenge. It necessitates urgent re-exploration, but the logistic challenge to provide sufficient resources for the emergency intervention remains. The aim of this study was to analyze the long-term outcome after successful lower extremity free flap salvage. Methods A single-center retrospective study including long-term follow-up was approved by the local ethics committee. From January 1999 to December 2010, a total of 581 free flaps were performed for lower extremity reconstruction. Eighty-six flaps required emergency re-exploration, of which 65 could be salvaged. Fifteen salvaged flaps were excluded from the study because of secondary amputation. Of 50 patients, 29 (6 females and 23 males) were eligible for follow-up. The mean follow-up time was 54.5 ± 32.9 months. Health-related quality of life (Short Form 36 [SF-36]) and scar quality (Vancouver Scar Scale [VSS]) were analyzed. Results The overall flap survival rate was 94.7% and the total loss rate was 5.3%. The re-exploration rate was 14.8% (86 of 581 flaps). The salvage rate was 75.6% (65 of 86 flaps). Twenty-one free flaps were totally lost (24.4%). Partial flap loss occurred in 12 cases (14.0%); 67.5% of the vascular complications occurred during the first 24 hours, 20.9% between 24 and 72 hours, and 11.6% after more than 72 hours. The mean time from the first signs of impaired flap perfusion to re-exploration was 1.3 ± 0.4 hours, and from free tissue transfer to re-exploration was 16.2 ± 1.9 hours. The overall scar appearance was good with an average VSS score of 4.0 points. The average SF-36 physical component score was 54.4 ± 5.4 and the mental component score was 63.1 ± 10.7. Conclusion Careful monitoring and the opportunity for urgent re-exploration are the key to success for free flaps salvage. Following these principles, an acceptable long-term outcome can be achieved.

scholarly journals Pedicled anterolateral thigh flap for contralateral groin composite defect

2010 ◽  
Vol 43 (01) ◽  
pp. 103-105
Author(s):  
S. P. Bharath ◽  
G. Madhusudan ◽  
Suraj Manjunath
Keyword(s):  
Free Flaps ◽  
Anterior Superior Iliac Spine ◽  
Anterolateral Thigh Flap ◽  
Wide Resection ◽  
Vascular Pedicle ◽  
Anterolateral Thigh ◽  
Vascular Compromise ◽  
Femoral Vessels ◽  
Alt Flap ◽  
Composite Defect

ABSTRACTPedicled anterolateral thigh flap has been well described for ipsilateral groin defects. Its versatility depends on the intact femoral vessels. When the external iliac and the femoral vessels are absent, especially secondary to wide surgical tumour ablations in the groin region, ipsilateral ALT flap is not an option. Free flaps also are difficult because of lack of recipient vessels. We report a case of composite groin defect following wide resection of recurrent liposarcoma along with encased vessels which was covered with a pedicled anterolateral thigh flap from the opposite thigh. The technique of lengthening the vascular pedicle and medializing the pedicle, to effectively increase its reach to the contralateral anterior superior iliac spine without vascular compromise, is described.

scholarly journals Being Prepared for the Next Conflict Part II: Case Analysis of a Military Level 1 Trauma Center

2020 ◽  
Vol 185 (7-8) ◽  
pp. e1235-e1239
Author(s):  
Thomas T Wood ◽  
Haydn J Roberts ◽  
Daniel J Stinner
Keyword(s):  
Soft Tissue ◽  
Lower Extremity ◽  
Trauma Center ◽  
Free Flaps ◽  
Soft Tissue Coverage ◽  
Combat Casualty ◽  
Civilian Trauma ◽  
Low Volume ◽  
Level 1 ◽  
Level 1 Trauma Center

Abstract Introduction Combat-related injuries have declined substantially in recent years as we have transitioned to a low-volume combat casualty flow era. Surgeons must remain actively committed to training for the next engagement to maintain life and limb-saving skills. Soft tissue coverage procedures were imperative to the management of complex lower extremity trauma that occurred during recent conflicts. The purpose of this study was to evaluate advanced soft tissue coverage procedures performed on the lower extremity over the previous decade on military and civilian trauma patients at a Department of Defense Level 1 trauma center to provide data that can be used to guide future training efforts. Materials and Methods The electronic surgical record system was searched for cases that utilized advanced soft tissue coverage (rotational and free flaps) to the lower extremity. The date of treatment, indication, procedure performed, and military/civilian patient designation were recorded. The data was categorized between military and civilian cases, rotational versus free flap, and indication and then charted over time. It was assessed as moving averages over a 12-month period. Statistically distinct periods were then identified. Results From January 2006 to March 2015, 132 advanced soft tissue coverage procedures were performed on the lower extremity (100 military, 32 civilian). Military soft tissue coverage data demonstrated peaks in 2007 and late 2011 to late 2012, averaging 6.5 (3.5–9.6) and 4.5 (3.2–5.8) per quarter, respectively. There were two low periods, from 2008 to mid-2010 and from mid-2012 to the end of the study, averaging 1.1 (0.6–1.6) and 1.8 (1.1–2.6) cases per quarter, respectively. Civilian procedures averaged 0.9 per quarter (0.5–1.2) throughout the study, but notably were equal to the number of military procedures by the last quarter of 2013 at 2.0 (1.2–2.8 civilian, 0.8–3.1 military). Conclusions This data supports prior identified trends in military cases correlating increased number of procedures with increased combat activity related to the conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan in 2007 and 2011, respectively. The data showed relative stability in the numbers of civilian procedures with a slight uptrend beginning in mid-2012. A comparison after mid-2012 shows military procedures declining and civilian procedures increasing to eventually become equivalent at the end of the data collection. These trends follow previously reported data on tibia fracture fixation procedures and lower extremity amputations for the same time periods. These data demonstrate the importance of the civilian trauma mission for maintaining surgical skills relevant to limb salvage, such as rotational and free flaps, during a low-volume combat casualty flow era.

Long-Term Clinical and Functional Outcomes After Treatment for Localized Ewing's Tumor of the Lower Extremity

2008 ◽  
Vol 70 (2) ◽  
pp. 501-509 ◽  
Author(s):  
Daniel J. Indelicato ◽  
Sameer R. Keole ◽  
Amir H. Shahlaee ◽  
Wenyin Shi ◽  
Christopher G. Morris ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Lower Extremity ◽  
Functional Outcomes ◽  
Ewing’S Tumor

scholarly journals Aesthetic and Functional Outcomes of the Innervated and Thinned Anterolateral Thigh Flap in Reconstruction of Upper Limb Defects

2014 ◽  
Vol 2014 ◽  
pp. 1-7 ◽  
Author(s):  
Carlos Alberto Torres-Ortíz Zermeño ◽  
Javier López Mendoza
Keyword(s):  
Upper Extremity ◽  
Free Flaps ◽  
Sensory Function ◽  
Anterolateral Thigh Flap ◽  
Level Of Evidence ◽  
Average Percentage ◽  
Aesthetic Result ◽  
Anterolateral Thigh ◽  
Good Cosmetic ◽  
Alt Flap

Background. The anterolateral thigh (ALT) flap has been widely described in reconstruction of the upper extremity. However, some details require refinement to improve both functional and aesthetic results. Methods. After reconstruction of upper extremity defects using thinned and innervated ALT flaps, functional and aesthetic outcomes were evaluated with the QuickDASH scale and a Likert scale for aesthetic assessment of free flaps, respectively. Results. Seven patients with a mean follow-up of 11.57 months and average flap thickness of 5 mm underwent innervation by an end-to-end neurorrhaphy. The average percentage of disability (QuickDASH) was 21.88% with tenderness, pain, temperature, and two-point discrimination present in 100% of cases, and the aesthetic result gave an overall result of 15.40 (good) with the best scores in color and texture. Conclusions. Simultaneous thinning and innervation of the ALT flap lead to a good cosmetic result and functional outcome with a low percentage of disability, which could result in minor surgical procedures and better recovery of motor and sensory function. Level of Evidence. IV.

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