Innervation of free anterolateral thigh flap for repairing widespreadly traumatic soft tissue defects in heel

Abstract

Objective To explore new methods of innervating the anterolateral thigh flap(ALTF) for repairing widespreadly traumatic soft tissue defects in heel and report their initial results of clinical application. Methods Twenty-five consecutive ALTFs were transplanted in 25 patients for repairing widespreadly traumatic soft tissue defects in heel from October 2005 to October 2010. Three ways were used in this series for sensory reconstruction of ALTFs,which based on the primary researches of the anatomic and histomorphological characteristics of lateral femoral cutaneous nerve (LFCN),medial calcaneal nerve (MCN) and lateral calcaneal nerve (LCN). The first way which was of suture between reshaped LFCN and MCN or LCN was used in 16 cases, the second way which was of perineurial suture combined with epineurial suture was used in 6 cases,and the small-gap-suture way was used in the remaining cases.The section of LFCN 5-7 cm below the anterior superior iliae spine and the initial segment of MCN or LCN were selected as anastomotic position. Postoperative follow-up parameters include pain sensation, touch sensation, thermal sensibility and static two-point discrimination. Results All flaps survived,and the wounds were primary intention.Twentyfive cases followed up 9-36 months (18 months on average).All flaps restored protective sensation,and the rate of good sensory recovery was 60％. All patients restored weighing and walking, and no ulceration happened. Conclusion Satisfactory sensory function restoration can be obtained by paying attention to the distribution and variety of LFCNs, selecting suitable cutaneous nerves and rational coaptated position as well as suitable suturation means which based on the anatomic and histomorphologieal characteristics of LFCN,MCN and LCN when repairing widespread soft tissue defects in heel. Key words: Anterolateral thigh flap; Heel; Sensory reconstruction; Repair; Cutaneous nerves