Tensor Fasciae Lata Flap was a Life Boat after Bilateral Anterolateral Thigh Flaps Has been Used for Head and Neck Reconstruction-Two Case Report and Literature Review

Abstract

Background: Microsurgical free flap was commonly used for head and neck reconstruction after cancer ablation surgery. Flaps are more effective for mouth opening and other oral functions. Anterolateral thigh flap (ALT flap) has been used widely for reconstruction. To harvest the tensor fasciae lata flap (TFL flap) after bilateral anterolateral thigh flaps had been used as a life boat has not been reported. Aim and Objectives: To demonstrate the concept of harvesting two independent flaps based on the same pedicle but different branch in a two-step approach seems possible. Patients and Methods: Two patients were harvested tensor fasciae lata flap for recurrent buccal cancer reconstruction when bilateral anterolateral thigh flaps has been used. Results: Tensor fasciae lata flaps were viable and stable, and the donor site was healthy without complication. Conclusion: Harvesting tensor fasciae lata flap after bilateral anterolateral thigh flaps which were all based on the different branch of the same pedicle of lateral circumflex femoral artery, was practical and feasible. (J Taiwan Soc of Plast Surg 2012;21:236~241)