807 A Review of The Applications of Autologous Fascia Lata Grafts in Reconstructive Surgery

Abstract

Abstract Background We sought to review current applications of fascia lata autografts and update the original collection of uses proposed almost a century ago, thereby revealing the full extent of uses available to the contemporary reconstructive surgeon. Method A comprehensive literature search of peer-reviewed articles listed within PubMed and Medline was performed. Results The properties of autologous fascia lata grafts are presented, a technique for its harvest and the numerous uses of this material in reconstructive surgery. Specifically, its applications in head and neck surgery, surgery of the limbs, abdominal wall reconstruction and penile reconstruction are reviewed. There is limited data on donor site morbidity, but complications appear to be uncommon. However, it was established that the reported risk of muscle herniation varies greatly in the available literature from 0-36% and appears to be related to the width of tissue harvested. Conclusions Autologous fascia lata grafts are a viable and versatile material in the armamentarium of a reconstructive surgeon, that, with careful planning, can be used with minimal donor site morbidity. This is especially true in lower resource settings where a surgeon may not have access to allogenic material and autologous grafts can provide an easily accessible, cheaper, and practical alternative.