ALT Flaps

2019 ◽  
pp. 403-412
Author(s):  
Jonathan A. Zelken ◽  
Ming-Huei Cheng
Keyword(s):  
Surface Area ◽  
Free Flap ◽  
Dead Space ◽  
Free Flaps ◽  
Diverse Range ◽  
Anterolateral Thigh ◽  
Flow Through ◽  
Alt Flap

The anterolateral thigh (ALT) flap is one of the most versatile and reliable of the thigh-based free flaps. The ALT flap is indicated for reconstruction of a diverse range of defects of various surface area and depths; it can be used as a “ultra-thin” flap for resurfacing, rolled up for filling in dead space, or taken with muscle to obliterate spaces or provide bulk. The flap has been used in trauma salvage as a flow-through flap, as a tissue carrier to “piggy back” additional flaps. The flap can be raised as a pedicled (proximally or distally) or a free flap, either supra- or subfascia with or without muscle or additional tissue components.

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 Use of the Anterolateral Thigh in Cranio-Orbitofacial Reconstruction

2011 ◽  
Vol 2011 ◽  
pp. 1-6 ◽  
Author(s):  
William J. Parkes ◽  
Howard Krein ◽  
Ryan Heffelfinger ◽  
Joseph Curry
Keyword(s):  
Free Flap ◽  
Case Series ◽  
Free Tissue Transfer ◽  
Free Flaps ◽  
Tissue Loss ◽  
Flap Reconstruction ◽  
Free Flap Reconstruction ◽  
Anterolateral Thigh ◽  
The Many ◽  
Soft Tissue Loss

Objective. To detail the clinical outcomes of a series of patients having undergone free flap reconstruction of the orbit and periorbita and highlight the anterolateral thigh (ALT) as a workhorse for addressing defects in this region. Methods. A review of 47 patients who underwent free flap reconstruction for orbital or periorbital defects between September 2006 and May 2011 was performed. Data reviewed included demographics, defect characteristics, free flap used, additional reconstructive techniques employed, length of stay, complications, and follow-up. The ALT subset of the case series was the focus of the data reviewed for this paper. Selected cases were described to highlight some of the advantages of employing the ALT for cranio-orbitofacial reconstruction. Results. 51 free flaps in 47 patients were reviewed. 38 cases required orbital exenteration. The ALT was used in 33 patients. Complications included 1 hematoma, 2 wound infections, 3 CSF leaks, and 3 flap failures. Conclusions. Free tissue transfer allows for the safe and effective reconstruction of complex defects of the orbit and periorbital structures. Reconstructive choice is dependent upon the extent of soft tissue loss, midfacial bone loss, and skullbase involvement. The ALT provides a versatile option to reconstruct the many cranio-orbitofacial defects encountered.

scholarly journals Innervated Free Flap Abdominal Wall Reconstruction: A Systematic Review

2017 ◽  
Vol 02 (02) ◽  
pp. e118-e123
Author(s):  
Paul Therattil ◽  
Stephen Viviano ◽  
Edward Lee ◽  
Jonathan Keith
Keyword(s):  
Abdominal Wall ◽  
Free Flap ◽  
Vastus Lateralis ◽  
Abdominal Wall Reconstruction ◽  
Free Flaps ◽  
Fascia Lata ◽  
Sensory Innervation ◽  
Abdominal Wall Defects ◽  
Tensor Fascia Lata ◽  
Anterolateral Thigh

Background Reconstruction of large abdominal wall defects provides unique challenges to the plastic surgeon. Reconstruction with innervated free flaps has been described and allows for true functional replacement of “like with like.” The authors sought to determine the frequency and outcomes of such reconstructions. Methods A literature review was performed using MEDLINE (PubMed), EMBASE, and the Cochrane Collaboration Library for research articles related to innervated free flaps in abdominal wall reconstruction. Results Nine case series (16 patients) were included who underwent free flap reconstruction of the abdominal wall with motor and/or sensory innervation. Reconstruction was performed with latissimus dorsi (n = 5), tensor fascia lata (n = 4), rectus femoris (n = 2), combined tensor fascia lata-anterolateral thigh (n = 2), combined vastus lateralis-tensor fascia lata-anterolateral thigh flaps (n = 2), and vastus lateralis-anterolateral thigh (n = 1). All but one reconstruction had motor neurotization performed (n = 15), while only 12.5% (n = 2) had sensory neurotization performed. At least 66.6% of patients (n = 10) who had motor neurotization regained motor function as evidenced by documented clinical examination findings while 93.3% (n = 14) had “satisfactory” motor function on author's subjective description of the function. Both flaps that had sensory innervation were successful with Semmes–Weinstein testing of 3.61. Conclusion A majority of neurotized free flap reconstructions for abdominal wall defects have been performed for motor innervation, which is almost invariably successful. Sensory neurotization has been carried out for a small number of these reconstructions, and also has been successful. Improvements in techniques and outcomes in innervated free flap abdominal wall reconstruction are important to advancing efforts in abdominal wall transplantation.

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.

scholarly journals Reconstruction of a Large Through and Through Defect of the Oral Cavity Using Double Anterolateral Thigh Free Flap

2014 ◽  
Vol 29 (1) ◽  
pp. 26-29
Author(s):  
Jefferson A. Alamani ◽  
Samantha S. Castañeda ◽  
Adrian F. Fernando
Keyword(s):  
Soft Tissue ◽  
Oral Cavity ◽  
Free Flap ◽  
Donor Site ◽  
Operating Time ◽  
Soft Tissue Defect ◽  
Full Thickness ◽  
Anterolateral Thigh ◽  
Cervical Area ◽  
Alt Flap

Objective: To present our application of a double anterolateral thigh (ALT) free flap in reconstruction of a large full thickness defect of the oral cavity, cheek and cervical area. Methods: Design: Case Report Setting: Tertiary Government Hospital Patient: One Results: A 77-year-old male with a 20 x 25 cm full thickness soft tissue defect on the facial and cervical area contiguous with a 6 x 6 cm buccal defect resulting from wide tumor ablation of a Stage IVA (T4aN2bM0) squamous cell carcinoma of the buccal mucosa underwent reconstruction using two ALT free flaps. An ALT flap was designed to cover the intraoral and cheek defect, while another ALT flap was used for external coverage of the cervical defect. The first ALT flap measured approximately 8 x 22 cm while the second ALT flap measured 6 x 22 cm harvested from the left and right thigh respectively. Temporary venous congestion was observed on the inferiorly placed ALT flap due to neck edema that spontaneously resolved on the 2nd post-operative day. Minimal donor site complications observed were linear scars, and a 1 x 4 cm dehiscence on the right thigh that healed spontaneously by secondary intention.   Conclusion: The utilization of a double anterolateral thigh free flap allowed single-stage reconstruction of the large soft tissue head and neck defect with little donor site morbidity, shorter operating time and shorter hospital stay.   Keywords: anterolateral thigh free flap (ALT flap), double ALT flap, full-thickness buccal defect

Radial Artery Fascial Flow-Through Free Flap for Complex Cerebral Revascularization: Technical Notes and Long-Term Neurologic and Radiographic Outcomes

2018 ◽  
Vol 16 (4) ◽  
pp. 424-434 ◽  
Author(s):  
Robert C Rennert ◽  
Kristine Ravina ◽  
Ben A Strickland ◽  
Joshua Bakhsheshian ◽  
Joseph Carey ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Radial Artery ◽  
Moyamoya Disease ◽  
Cerebral Artery ◽  
Free Flap ◽  
Free Flaps ◽  
Graft Patency ◽  
Wound Complications ◽  
Bifurcation Aneurysm ◽  
Flow Through

AbstractBACKGROUNDSurgical innovation is critical for the management of challenging cerebrovascular pathology. Flow-through free flaps are versatile composite grafts that combine viable tissue with a revascularization source. Neurosurgical experience with these flaps is limited.OBJECTIVETo provide an in-depth technical description of the radial artery fascial (and fasciocutaneous) flow-through free flap (RAFF and RAFCF, respectively) for complex cerebral revascularizations.METHODSAn Institutional Review Board-approved, prospective database was retrospectively reviewed to identify patients that underwent extracranial-to-intracranial cerebral bypass with a RAFF or RAFCF. Patient demographics, underlying pathology, surgical treatment, complications, and outcomes were recorded.RESULTSA total of 4 patients were treated with RAFFs or RAFCFs (average age 40 ± 8.8 yr). Two patients with progressive moyamoya disease involving multiple vascular territories with predominantly anterior cerebral artery (ACA) symptoms and flow alterations underwent combined direct ACA and indirect middle cerebral artery (MCA) bypass with a RAFF. The third patient with moyamoya disease and concomitant proximal fusiform aneurysms requiring internal carotid artery sacrifice underwent dual direct ACA and MCA bypass and indirect MCA revascularization with posterior tibial artery and RAFF grafts. The fourth patient with a large MCA bifurcation aneurysm and recurrent wound complications underwent a direct MCA bypass and complex wound reconstruction using a RAFCF. Good neurologic outcomes (Glasgow Outcomes Scale score ≥4 at discharge) were achieved in all patients. There were no perioperative surgical complications, and graft patency was confirmed on long-term follow-up.CONCLUSIONThe RAFF and RAFCF are versatile grafts for complex cerebral revascularizations.

scholarly journals Sole Reconstruction Using Anterolateral Thigh Free Flap: A Review of 4 Cases

1970 ◽  
Vol 2 (3) ◽  
Author(s):  
Parintosa Atmodiwirjo ◽  
Afriyanti Sandhi
Keyword(s):  
Free Flap ◽  
Weight Bearing ◽  
Donor Site ◽  
Three Dimensional ◽  
Free Flaps ◽  
Donor Site Morbidity ◽  
Common Procedure ◽  
Anterolateral Thigh ◽  
Protective Sensation ◽  
And Function

Background: The ideal technique for sole reconstruction should meet such requisite as a durable and comfortable weight-bearing surface, solid anchoring to deep tissue for resistance to shear force and adequate protective sensation. The anterolateral thigh (ALT) perforator free flap provides a large, pliable skin island and sufficient bulk, allowing three-dimensional tailoring to complex defects. The present article is about our experience of sole reconstruction ALT perforator free flap. Patient and Method: Total of 4 flaps in the foot defects was performed in February 2009 to December 2012. We reconstructed soft tissue defects in the sole using ALT free flaps, the complications, aesthetic and function results were monitored. Result: ALT perforator free flap provided stable and durable long-term wound cover in all patients, resulting in early rehabilitation and function outcomes were completely achieved. Complications were few and manageable in all cases. Summary: ALT perforator free flap has become common procedure in many centers around the world. The numerous advantages include stable wound coverage; improve aesthetic and functional outcomes, and minimal donor site morbidity. In our experiences, we found that the use of ALT perforator free flap in sole defect reconstruction, to be technically affordable, reliable and have resulted in excellent outcomes.

Radial Artery Fascial Flow-Through Free Flap for Combined Revascularization in Moyamoya Disease

2017 ◽  
Vol 14 (2) ◽  
pp. 139-144 ◽  
Author(s):  
Jonathan Russin ◽  
Joseph Carey
Keyword(s):  
Moyamoya Disease ◽  
Cerebral Artery ◽  
Free Flap ◽  
Anterior Cerebral Artery ◽  
Single Case ◽  
Free Flaps ◽  
Soft Tissue Reconstruction ◽  
Single Case Report ◽  
Proximal Anterior Cerebral Artery ◽  
Flow Through

Abstract BACKGROUND Free flaps are commonly used by other surgical subspecialties for soft tissue reconstruction and revascularization. Cranial applications of these flaps have been limited to only a single case report. OBJECTIVE To present a new technique for combined revascularization in moyamoya disease using a flow-through free flap. METHODS Data were obtained from an Institutional Review Board-approved, prospectively maintained database with informed consent from the patient. RESULTS A 28-yr-old patient presented with progressive stenosis of the proximal anterior cerebral artery resulting in ischemic infarcts. Direct revascularization of the anterior cerebral artery territory and indirect revascularization of the middle cerebral artery with a large vascularized fascial pedicle was performed. CONCLUSION Flow-through free flaps offer a unique combination of revascularization and a large vascularized pedicle. This technique highlights the application of these flaps for revascularization in moyamoya disease and the value of multidisciplinary collaboration. Revascularization will likely play an increasing role in the open surgical treatment of cerebrovascular disease. We believe that flow-through free flaps will be a contribution to the future of revascularization in neurosurgery.

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.

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