Clinical follow-up of 16 cases delayed reverse anterolateral thigh pedicled flap for reconstruction of soft tissue defect of the knee

Abstract

Objective To report clinical follow-up of 16 cases delayed reverse anterolateral thigh pedicled flap for reconstruction soft-tissue defect of the knee. Methods From January, 2006 to January, 2013, 16 patients (10 male, 6 female) with soft-tissue defect in the knee underwent reconstruction with a delayed reverse anterolateral thigh pedicled flap. They ranged in age from 30 to 58 years (mean, 46 years). Soft-tissue defect size in the knee were from 10.0 cm × 12.0 cm-10.5 cm × 20.0 cm. The septocutaneous and musculocutaneous perforator flaps were 5 and 11 cases respectively. The delay period ranged from 9 to 15 days (mean, 12 days). Temporary wound coverage was achieved by vacuum sealing drainage during the delay period. Results One patient developed small wound dehiscence, which spontaneous healed at one month after surgery. All the flaps survived completely. Follow-up period ranged from 2.5-4.0 years (mean, 3 years) postoperatively. A good contour was confirmed at the recipient area. The function of the lower extremity were evaluated with LEM. Very good results were obtained in 9 cases, good in 6 cases and fair in 1 case. Satisfactory clinical results were obtained in this series. Conclusion This technique is safe, reliable, and particularly suitable for patients with diabetes or larger flap. Key words: Anterolateral thigh flap; Perforator flap; Soft-tissue defect; Knee; Repair