Anterolateral Thigh Flap For Reconstruction Research Articles

Comparative Study Between Pedicled Groin Flap and Free Anterolateral Thigh Flap in Reconstruction of Complex Soft Tissue Hand Defects

Comparative Study Between Pedicled Groin Flap and Free Anterolateral Thigh Flap in Reconstruction of Complex Soft Tissue Hand Defects

Utilizing the Subunit Concept to Achieve Better Outcomes in Lower Limb Reconstruction: A Clinical Experience in an Asian Population.

The goals of reconstruction have progressed from filling a defect to enhancing function and aesthetic appearance. We aimed to achieve better aesthetic and functional outcomes in terms of shoe fitting and mobility. This is accomplished via a classification of the subunits and aesthetic considerations of the lower limb. Between April 2017 and December 2021, 66 cases of lower extremity free fasciocutaneous flap reconstruction cases were included in this retrospective study. Data parameters include age, sex, comorbidities, etiology of lower limb wounds, choice of free flap reconstruction, recipient arterial vessels, complications of flap reconstruction, and need for secondary debulking procedures. Physiotherapy records were also examined to determine the time to independent ambulation. In total, 66 subjects were identified. The mean age was 48.6. An estimated 74.2% (n = 49) were men, 50% (n = 33) had diabetes, and 16.6% (n = 11) had peripheral vascular disease. Of the total wounds, 65.1% (n = 43) were caused by infection, whereas the remaining 34.9% (n = 23) were due to trauma. Of the cases, 72.7% (n = 48) had free anterolateral thigh flap reconstruction, 25.8% (n = 17) were reconstructed with superficial circumflex iliac artery perforator flaps, and 1.5% (n = 1) was reconstructed with medial sural artery perforator flaps. Cases that required secondary debulking procedures comprised 7.6% (n = 5). Free fasciocutaneous flaps are useful in lower extremity reconstruction. Based on the subunit principle and aesthetic considerations for lower limb reconstruction, it can aid in optimizing functional rehabilitation and decreasing secondary procedures.

Improving the outcome of distally based anterolateral thigh flap reconstruction: New classification and surgical guidelines

The distally based anterolateral thigh (dALT) flap is associated with a high incidence of venous congestion. This study aimed to investigate factors associated with vascular compromise to improve the outcomes. We retrospectively analyzed 41 dALT flap reconstructions performed between November 2010 and February 2023. The dALT flap was classified into type I, II, or III based on the origin (the descending, oblique, or transverse branch) of the chosen perforator. The distance from the pivot point to the superolateral patella, pedicle length, flap reach, complications, and loss rates were analyzed to identify different dALT flap characteristics. The type Ⅰ flap had a shorter pedicle length (type Ⅰ vs. type Ⅱ, p=0.000; type Ⅰ vs. type Ⅲ, p=0.000) that primarily reached closer regions (distal third of the thigh anterior/lateral knee). Pedicle lengths were similar between type Ⅱ and Ⅲ flaps (p=1.000), most of which reached more distal regions (medial/posterior knee or proximal third of the leg). However, the type Ⅲ flaps had a higher complication rate and flap loss rate, although no significant differences were observed (complication rate, p=0.094; flap loss rate, p=0.071). To achieve more desirable outcomes using the dALT flap, preoperative assessment of flap pedicle length and proper intraoperative maneuvers that avoid compromising the reverse blood circulation are necessary.

Anchored sutures for fixation of the anterolateral thigh flap and prevention of orocutaneous fistula in oral and oropharyngeal cancer reconstruction.

This study aims to assess the efficacy of anchored sutures (AS) in securing the anterolateral thigh (ALT) flap during oral and oropharyngeal reconstructions, and its impact on the occurrence of orocutaneous fistula (OCF). A retrospective study was performed on patients who underwent ALT flap reconstruction in our department in the year 2022. The patients were divided into two groups based on whether the AS technique was used. The incidence of OCF was compared between the two groups, and AS-related complications were reported. Fisher's exact test was employed to assess the differences in baseline characteristics and the incidence of OCF between the two groups. The study included 214 patients, with 156 in the conventional suture (CS) group and 58 in the AS group. The incidence of OCF in the AS group was significantly lower compared to that in the CS group (P = 0.039). However, there was a weak correlation between OCF and the AS technique (φ = -0.149). Among the 58 cases in the AS group, three (5.17%) experienced AS-related granuloma (ASRG) as complications. The use of ALT flap reconstruction with the AS technique reduces the incidence of OCF; however, ASRG may be a potential complication. This study demonstrates the effectiveness of AS technique in securing ALT flaps, leading to a decreased risk of OCF in oral and oropharyngeal defect reconstruction.

Super-thin anterolateral thigh flap for reconstruction of the medial plantar artery perforator flap donor site.

The medial plantar artery perforator (MPAP) flap is widely used to reconstruct the weight-bearing area of the foot. Traditionally, its donor site is closed using a skin graft, which is associated with several complications, including walking disability. This study aimed to examine our experience with using a super-thin anterolateral thigh (ALT) flap to reconstruct the MPAP flap donor site. We examined 10 patients who underwent reconstruction of the MPAP flap donor site using a super-thin ALT flap between August 2019 and March 2021. The vascular pedicle was anastomosed to the proximal end of the medial plantar vessels or the end of the posterior tibial vessels. All reconstruction flaps survived and all patients were satisfied with the aesthetic appearance. No blisters, ulcerations, hyperpigmentation, or contractures occurred. All patients gained protective sensation in the super-thin ALT flap. The average visual analog scale score for the aesthetic appearance of the reconstructed foot was 8.5 ± 0.7 (range, 8-10). All patients were able to ambulate without aids and could wear regular shoes. The average revised Foot Function Index score was 26.4 ± 4.1 (range, 22-34). Reconstruction of the MPAP flap donor site using a super-thin ALT flap is reliable and provides satisfactory functional recovery, aesthetic appearance, and protective sensation while minimizing postoperative morbidity.

Reliability of Single Perforator Based Free Anterolateral Thigh Flap Reconstruction among Children with Post Traumatic Limb Defects

Aim: To evaluate reliability of anterolateral thigh flap based on a single perforator in pediatric population for lower limb post traumatic defects. Study design: Retrospective cross sectional study Place and duration of study: Pediatric plastic surgery department of the children hospital & university of child health science, Lahore from January 2018 to January 2022. Methodology: After approval from ethical review board, 50 patients who underwent a free Alt flap reconstruction were included in this retrospective analysis. All flaps for lower limb post traumatic raised on a single perforator were included and reliability of flap was assessed for technical feasibility, outcomes and safety. Data was entered and analysed in SPSS ver: 21.0 and presented as frequency and percentages. Results: Mean age was 8.2±3.45 years 64% were males.96% had undergone road traffic accident (4% burn).Lower limb was affected in majority of patients 80% (upper limb 20%). 78% of patients were discharged at 10th post-operative day and 8% had partial flap loss. Conclusion: We concluded in this studyfree tissue transfer of anterolateral thigh flap based on a single perforator in children for covering large defects is a reliable method with good safety margin and minimal complication rate. Keywords: Anterolateral thigh flap, single perforator, pediatric population, free flap, free tissue transfer, perforator flap reliability

Predictors of Gastrostomy Tube Placement in Head and Neck Cancer Patients at a Rural Tertiary Care Hospital

Abstract Background Head and neck cancer is a leading cause of cancer. Treatment often requires surgical resection, free-flap reconstruction, radiation, and/or chemotherapy. Tumor burden and pain may limit swallowing and impair nutrition, increasing complications and mortality. Patients commonly require gastrostomy tubes (G-tube), but predicting which patients are in need remains elusive. This study identifies predictors of G-tube among head and neck cancer patients undergoing immediate free-flap reconstruction. Methods Institutional Review Board approval was obtained. Retrospective database review was performed of patients at 18 years of age or older with head and neck cancer who underwent resection with immediate free-flap reconstruction from 2011 to 2019. Patients who underwent nonfree-flap or delayed reconstruction or with mortality within 7 days postoperatively were excluded. Patient demographics and comorbidities, tumor/treatment characteristics, and need for G-tube were analyzed to identify univariate and multivariate predictors. Results In total, 107 patients were included and 72 required G-tube placement. On multivariate analysis, tracheostomy (odds ratio [OR]: 81.78; confidence interval [CI]: 7.43–1,399.92; p < 0.01), anterolateral thigh flap reconstruction (OR: 16.18; CI: 1.14–429.66; p = 0.04), and age 65 years or younger (OR: 9.35; CI: 1.47–89.11; p = 0.02) were predictors of G-tube placement. Conclusion Head and neck cancer treatment commonly involves extensive resection, reconstruction, and/or chemoradiation. These patients are at high risk for malnutrition and need G-tube. Determining who requires a pre- or postoperative G-tube remains a challenge. In this study, the need for tracheostomy or ALT flap reconstruction and age 65 years or younger were predictive of postoperative G-tube placement. Future research will guide a multidisciplinary perioperative pathway to facilitate the optimization of nutrition management.

One Versus Two Veins in Free Anterolateral Thigh Flap Reconstruction: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

There is considerable debate in the literatureas to whether one or two venous anastomoses are optimal in the anterolateral thigh (ALT) free-flap reconstruction. The literature is currently devoid of a systematic review and meta-analysis of studies evaluating these procedures. This review will therefore be the first to address this clinical question. In accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, two authors (EW and SR) independently searched the following electronic databases: MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL). Case-control, randomised controland observational studies were included. The authors did not include case reports, case series, letters or abstracts.All patients were included regardless of age, co-morbidity status, and the anatomical site of reconstruction. Venous congestion/thrombosis, flap take-back rate due to venous insufficiency, flap lossand operative time were the primary outcome measures. Secondary outcome measures included partial flap loss and haematoma formation. The Newcastle Ottawa Scale was used to assess the risk of bias in the included studies. Review Manager 5.4 data synthesis software was used for the analysis. The authors identified eight observational studies, with a total of 1741 patients reviewed, demonstrating a significantly lower flap take-back rate for a double venous anastomosis and a shorter operative time in the single venous anastomosis group. However, other reported measures, including venous congestion and flap loss, showed a non-significant difference (P>0.05). The limitations of the evidence included in this review were that all studies were observational in design. The flap take-back rate is significantly less when anastomosing two veins, and the authors recommend that utilising a second vein can circumvent the caveat of venous compromise.

Reconstruction of nasal airway in patients of class IIId maxillary defect with vastus lateralis muscle-chimeric double skin paddle ALT flap

A reconstructive challenge in patients with class IIId maxillary defect is how to obliterate the defect and restore a patent nasal airway. The current strategy using the single anterolateral thigh (ALT) fasciocutaneous flap for reconstruction may result in permanent mouth breathing. As the ALT flap was a common option in reconstruction processes, this study aimed to evaluate the benefits of vastus lateralis (VL) muscle-chimeric double skin paddle ALT flap in simultaneous defect and nasal airway reconstruction. This study included 21 patients with class IIId maxillary defect who underwent free ALT flap reconstruction (n = 11, single ALT flap group; n = 10, VL muscle-chimeric double skin paddle ALT flap (chimeric ALT flap) group) at the China Medical University Hospital from August 2015 to September 2019. Associated parameters collected for analysis included gender, age, body mass index (BMI), operative time, hospitalization, clinical stage, preoperative treatment, flap/defect size, comorbidities, postoperative RT, mouth breathing and short/long term complications. No significant differences were observed in age, BMI, hospitalization, clinical stage, preoperative treatment, defect size, comorbidities, and postoperative RT between the two groups; however, the chimeric ALT flap group as dominated by male patients (p = 0.009), and had longer operative times (12.1h vs. 10.1h, p = 0.002) and larger flap sizes (180 cm2 vs. 96.7 cm2, p = 0.013). Compared with the chimeric ALT flap group, the single ALT flap group suffered from permanent mouth breathing. Nasal airway reconstruction should be considered in patients with class IIId maxillary defect. Compared to the single ALT flap, the chimeric ALT flap is a superior reconstructive option for patients with class IIId maxillary defect, although a longer surgical duration and larger flap size are required.

Pedicled chimeric muscle and anterolateral thigh fasciocutaneous flap reconstruction of trochanteric pressure wounds: Presentation of two cases

Abstract Trochanteric pressure wounds are a significant cause of morbidity among paraplegic and comorbid patients. Their surgical management requires femoral head ostectomy followed by robust soft tissue coverage both for dead space obliteration and for skin and subcutaneous tissue replacement. Many flap options and their variations have been presented for this purpose. We present a unique methodology utilizing a chimeric pedicled muscle and anterolateral thigh (ALT) flap for reconstruction. First, we present a paraplegic 39-year-old male who underwent a right Girdlestone procedure followed by a pedicled chimeric vastus lateralis and ALT flap for trochanteric pressure wound reconstruction. Secondly, we present a 55-year-old paraplegic male with a similar pathology on the left, who underwent a pedicled chimeric rectus femoris and ALT flap reconstruction. Both surgical courses were uncomplicated and with no wound recurrence. Our cases demonstrate that this modification of previously described reconstructions is a viable option for the reconstruction of trochanteric pressure wounds. The literature abounds with reconstructive options for trochanteric wound reconstruction, but none without limitations. We add another durable and robust coverage modality to the reconstructive surgeon’s armamentarium. The chimeric pedicle muscle and ALT flap surgical reconstruction is a viable technique in management of trochanteric pressure wound reconstruction. • Chimeric flap design provides benefits of both muscle and fasciocutaneous flaps. • Chimeric flap design is a viable technique for trochanteric pressure wounds. • There are many options for paddle selections. • Donor site morbidity is minimal and it creates nominally, if any, more scar burden.

Outcome of Venous Supercharged Pedicled Anterolateral Thigh Flap for Reconstruction of Soft Tissue Defect around the Knee Joint

Introduction: Soft tissue defects around the knee are common following motor vehicle accidents, burns especially electric burn, excision of malignancy etc. Reconstruction of soft tissue defect around the knee needs thin, pliable and tough skin. Recently distally based pedicled anterolateral thigh flap has been used for soft tissue reconstruction for its several advantages like long pedicle, sufficient amount of soft tissue and less donor site morbidity. But it has tendency towards venous congestion and this can be overcome with venous supercharging. This study was designed to evaluate the effectiveness of venous supercharging in reducing venous congestion in pedicled anterolateral thigh flap for reconstruction of soft tissue defect around the knee joint. Methods: This prospective observational study was carried out at Department of Plastic Surgery and Burn Unit, Dhaka Medical College Hospital and Sheikh Hasina National Institute of Burn and Plastic Surgery (SHNIBPS), Dhaka from August 2017 to June 2019. Twenty (20) patients who presented with defect around the knee were included in this study according to inclusion and exclusion criteria. Results: Maximum patients 5(25%)were day labour and wounds were created by MVA in most of the cases10(50%).Most common site was anterior aspect of knee joint 8(40%).The dimension of the wound size ranged from 5×3cm upto 7×14cm. Majority of the wounds ranged from 15×13cm to 17×14cm. The flap size ranged from 6×3.5cm upto 20×18cm. 18 (90%) flaps had no venous congestion, but 2(10%) cases had it. All flaps (20) survived well, 18 cases had acceptable scar and in 2 cases infection occurred. Regarding functional outcome of knee joints, 15 (75%) patients had full range of motion and 5(25%) patients had 5p -10p restriction in flexion of knee joints. Final outcome was found excellent in 16(80%) and satisfactory in 4(20%) cases. Conclusion: Venous supercharging in pedicled anterolateral thigh flap for soft tissue defect around the knee joint have shown to be effective in reducing venous congestion. J Bangladesh Coll Phys Surg 2022; 40: 233-239

The Debulking of Recurrent Right Testicular Seminoma with Anterolateral Thigh Flap Reconstruction

Introduction: Radical orchidectomy is considered both a therapy and a part of the staging procedure. Stage I seminoma may be treated with orchiectomy alone while the remaining 15% to 20% may have a relapse if they receive no additional treatment during the five-year surveillance. Most recurrences occur within the first 2 years after diagnosis, and the location of the recurrence is typically in the retroperitoneum. This article aims to share the experience in the management of testicular seminoma recurrence in a multidisciplinary approach.Case Presentation: We are reporting a case of a 26-year-old male with a growing mass at the right scrotum just two months after right radical orchidectomy. This patient was previously treated with a stage I seminoma and underwent surveillance. Tumor debulking and right inguinoscrotal reconstruction using a pedicled anterolateral thigh (ALT) flap were done through collaborative surgery between urology and plastic surgery. However, according to National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN), with the relapsed mass, this patient can be classified as having a stage III seminoma and considered as having a good-risk disease due to no evidence of non-pulmonary visceral metastasis. With the risk of bleomycin causing lung fibrosis, four cycles of etoposide and cisplatin can be considered the chemotherapy regimens for this patient. Evaluation after chemotherapy should be done by checking tumor markers and imaging studies.Conclusions: The reappearance of testicular seminoma in this patient unexpectedly occurred quite in a short period, that is in two months after surgery. Immediate multidisciplinary intervention by a urologist and plastic surgeon was done through tumor debulking with a wide incision margin and ALT flap reconstruction. Unfortunately, however, after the second month of follow-up, there was a bulging mass growing beneath the flap which needed further evaluation with ultrasonography to confirm the possibility of tumor recurrence or seroma. If tumor recurrence is confirmed, chemotherapy should be scheduled as soon as possible.

Impact of etiology leading to abdominoperineal resection with anterolateral thigh flap reconstruction: A retrospective cohort study.

Large and deep perineal defects following abdominal perineal resection (APR) are a challenge for reconstructive surgeons. Even if generally performed for oncological reasons, APR can be indicated as well in extended infection-related debridement for Hidradenitis suppurativa, Fournier's gangrene, or Crohn's disease. We aimed to compare the outcomes of two groups of patients with different indications for APR (infectious vs. oncological) after pedicled anterolateral thigh(ALT) flap coverage RESULTS: Forty-four consecutive pedicled ALT flap used for coverage after APR in 40 patients were analyzed. 26 patients (65%) underwent APR for oncological reasons and 14 patients (35%) for infectious reasons. The overall postoperative complications rate was significantly higher for infectious cases (76.5% vs. 40.7%, p = 0.0304). Major complications occurred in 52.9% of infectious cases versus 11.1% of oncological cases (p = 0.0045). Obesity and infectious etiology were independent risk factors for overall and major complications, respectively. Patients undergoing APR for acute or chronic infections had significantly more overall and major complications than patients having oncological APR. Modified care might be considered, especially in obese patients, in terms of surgical debridement, antibiotic treatment modalities, and postoperative management.

Functional and Aesthetic Outcomes of the Anterolateral Thigh Flap in Reconstruction of Upper Limb Defects: A Systematic Review.

Soft tissue coverage in the upper limb after trauma, burn injury, or tumour removal is a commonly addressed problem by the plastic surgeon. The anterolateral thigh flap (ALT) is recognized as a popular free flap option for covering various types of soft tissue defects due to its versatility. We aimed to assess the functional and aesthetic outcomes of the ALT flap for reconstruction of upper limb defects. Four electronic databases were searched (MEDLINE (PubMed), Scopus, Web of Science, and Cochrane) from inception to Feb 2021. Two reviewers independently extracted the data and performed risk assessment using the modified Downs and Black (MDB) quality assessment tool and the modified Newcastle Ottawa Scale for case series. This review included seven studies for quantitative assessment. The eligible studies had 67 patients. Included studies had used a varied number of validated upper extremity functional scoring systems; the most commonly used score was QuickDASH with mean of 21.24, DASH score was 15.5. In regard to aesthetic outcome, an overall satisfactory result was reported. A secondary debulking procedure was performed in 7 patients. Further studies are recommended to ascertain the functional and aesthetic outcomes of the ALT free flap for upper limb defects, especially using standardized outcome scoring systems. This may be supplemented with a questionnaire that addresses common patient concerns (such as colour, contour, textile and hair growth) for the aesthetic outcome. Nevertheless, based on our review, the ALT flap may be a good reliable reconstructive option for upper limb defects with good functional outcome and satisfactory aesthetic results.

Preoperative perforator mapping of anterolateral thigh flaps using computed tomographic angiography and visual coordinate system for the reconstruction of head and neck defects.

The anterolateral thigh (ALT) flap is a versatile workhorse flap for the reconstruction of head and neck defects; however, variations in the location of perforators are a significant concern. This prospective study proposes a rapid, effective, and convenient method for mapping the location of sizeable perforators on the curved thigh skin surface using the visual coordinate system in computed tomographic angiography (CTA) images. Fourteen patients suffering from defects after head and neck carcinoma resection underwent CTA prior to ALT flap reconstruction at the Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, from January 2018 to August 2021. Using sterile gauze swab developing lines pasted on the patients' thighs, we established a coordinate system visualized both in CTA images and the thighs. The perforator information was then compared between the CTA and intraoperative findings. Twenty-one perforators were detected on CTA in the designed flaps, which were also confirmed during the operation with a visual pulse. The course and source of the perforators were consistent with the intraoperative findings. The distances of perforator coordinate points between CTA and intraoperative findings were <5 mm. Another five perforators (mostly without visual pulse) found intraoperatively could not be identified on preoperative CTA. Most flaps survived in their entirety, and one flap suffered a small area of necrosis due to perforator compression. This study demonstrated the efficacy of a novel perforator mapping method for anterolateral thigh flaps.

Microsurgical Anterolateral Thigh Flap for Reconstruction of Extremity Soft Tissue Defects in Pediatric Patients.

The anterolateral thigh flap is one of the most widely used flaps because it has the advantages of less damage to the donor site, no sacrifice of main blood vessels, and abundant soft tissue. However, the application of anterolateral thigh flap in children is relatively rare because of small blood vessels and rapid physiological changes. The aim of this study was to explore the effectiveness and characteristics of free anterolateral thigh flaps for the reconstruction of extremity soft tissue defects in pediatric patients. This study included 26 pediatric patients, with an average age of 6.7 years (range, 2-13 years). There were 5 cases of upper limb defects and 21 cases of lower limb defects, all of which were accompanied by exposed bones or tendons. The causes of defects included traffic injury in 9 cases, mechanical injury in 7 cases, collision injury in 4 cases, spoke injury in 3 cases, cicatricial contracture in 2 cases, and fibroma in 1 case. All defects were reconstructed with free anterolateral thigh flaps. Twenty-six anterolateral thigh flaps were harvested, including 15 fasciocutaneous flaps and 11 musculocutaneous flaps. The mean size of the flap was 73.4 cm 2 (range, 4 × 3 to 24 × 8 cm). The donor sites were sutured directly in 19 cases and underwent split-thickness skin grafting in 7 cases. There were 3 cases of vascular crisis, 3 cases of flap edge necrosis, 3 cases of infection, 1 case of pressure ulcer, and 1 case of dehiscence after surgery. Eleven patients had scar hyperplasia in the donor site. A total of 34 reoperations were performed, including 14 flap debulking, 7 debridement, 4 skin graft, 3 vascular crisis re-exploration, and 6 other procedures. Free anterolateral thigh flap was a safe and reliable option for reconstructing soft tissue defects of extremities in pediatric patients. Notably, the incidence of scar hyperplasia in the donor site and the possibility of reoperation in pediatric patients were higher than those in adult patients.

Groin and anterolateral thigh flaps for hemiglossectomy reconstruction: A comparison based on Japanese speech intelligibility

ObjectiveThe differences in speech function between groin flap reconstruction and anterolateral thigh (ALT) flap reconstruction after hemiglossectomy have not been clarified to date. This study aimed to compare Japanese speech intelligibility after hemiglossectomy reconstruction using groin and ALT flaps of similar thickness. MethodsData of patients who underwent hemiglossectomy reconstruction with groin or ALT flaps between April 2010 and March 2020 were collected from the medical chart database. The ALT flap was the first choice for hemiglossectomy reconstruction, and a groin flap was used when the ALT flap was >10 mm. Cases in which speech intelligibility assessments based on Hirose's 10-point scoring system, the TKR speech test, and the Japanese speech intelligibility test for 100 monosyllables were performed after 6 months postoperatively were extracted. The per-patient scores for each assessment were initially compared between the two flap groups. Then, the results of the Japanese speech intelligibility test for 100 monosyllables were reanalyzed on a syllable-by-syllable basis. ResultsAmong the 44 hemiglossectomy patients who underwent free-flap reconstruction during the study period, 14 (seven each in the groin flap and ALT flap groups) underwent all three conventional speech intelligibility assessments after 6 months postoperatively. The two groups showed no significant difference in postoperative speech intelligibility in any of the three patient assessment methods. However, in intergroup comparisons based on per-syllable accuracy for each of the 100 monosyllables, the groin flap group showed 19 syllables with a significantly higher accuracy, whereas the ALT flap group showed one such syllable. In particular, five out of the six alveolar consonants (/t/ and /d/) were more accurately articulated in the groin flap group. Per-syllable accuracy was significantly higher in the groin flap group (74.6% vs. 66.7%; 95% confidence interval: 4.6–11.1, p < 0.001). ConclusionIn patients undergoing hemiglossectomy reconstruction, our new analysis method, which compared intelligibility by syllables, showed that the groin flap yielded higher speech intelligibility than the ALT flap. This difference was evident at all four articulation points involving the tongue, whereas there was no significant difference at the two articulation points without tongue involvement.

Efficacy of pedicled anterolateral thigh flap for reconstruction of regional defects - a record analysis.

The anterolateral thigh (ALT) flap was described as the fasciocutaneous flap. It can be harvested as apedicled and/orfree flap. Majority of the free flaps are harvested as afasciocutaneous flap. Their use in head and neck reconstruction and limb trauma is well established. Apart from these advantages, this flap has various applications which are less utilized. ALT flap can be used as amyocutaneous flap along with vastus lateralis muscle. When muscle and fasciocutaneous flaps are required, both can be harvested as achimeric flap which can cover two different regions of the wound. Moreover, harvest of the pedicled flap procedure is less time-consuming than that of afree flap. Since it has along vascular pedicle, when used as pedicled flap, it can reach up to the gluteal region. To evaluate these less applied advantages of pedicled ALT flap, our study was undertaken. This study aimed to evaluate the efficiency of ALT flap in terms of the surface area of coverage, arc of rotation and the advantages of including vastus lateralis muscle as part of the flap. Aretrospective record analysis of all pedicled ALT flap reconstruction of trochanteric, upper thigh, gluteal and flank regions from 2016 to 2018 was undertaken; 7 patients with 8 defects were included. All the flaps healed successfully. There was no major necrosis of the flap and minor complications like wound gapping were found in three patients. The ALT-vastus lateralis flap dimensions can be very large and can be easily harvested in avery short time. Vastus lateralis muscle harvested can be used to fill the defect or can be used as chimera to cover the defect. The use of muscle over long standing infective pressure sores can sterilize the wound bed and help in preventing recurrence. The vascularity of this flap is robust and highly reliable. Even after amaximum arc of rotation (up to 170°) all the flaps survived without any major complications.

Persistent Postsurgical Pain in Oral Cancer Patients Reconstructed with Anterolateral Thigh Free Flap.

Background and Objectives: The anterolateral thigh (ALT) flap is widely used in head and neck reconstruction, but the postoperative thigh sensory function lacks sufficient evaluation. The present study reports the postsurgical pain and cancer-related quality of life (QoL) in different stages of oral cancer patients receiving anterolateral thigh (ALT) flap reconstruction. Materials and Methods: Patients were subgrouped into postoperative early-, mid-, and late-recovery stages (postoperative 0.5–1 years, 1–2 years, and above 2 years) according to the time point of assessment. The QoL was examined using the EORTC C-30. Postsurgical donor and receipt site pain was evaluated through subjective reports and sensory tests. Results: Ninety-four patients were included in the final analysis. The functional and global health-related QoL significantly improved with time after surgery. However, spontaneous pain was reported in 57.7%, 72.3%, and 42% of patients in early-, mid-, and late-recovery stages, mainly in donor sites rather than in receipt sites. The highest incidence of donor site pain after ALT flap reconstruction in oral cancer surgery was in the mid-recovery stage but remained high in the late-recovery stage (56.8% and 36.7%, respectively). Conclusions: The postsurgical pain in the donor site might persist to or exhibit delayed onset one to two years postoperatively but is much improved after postoperatively two years later. A longer postsurgical follow-up for over two years for pain and sensory dysfunction is indicated.

Establishment of a patient-derived mucoepidermoid carcinoma cell line with the CRTC1-MAML2 fusion gene.

Mucoepidermoid carcinoma (MEC) is the most common malignant tumor of the major and minor salivary glands. Surgical resection is the only curative treatment and there is no effective post-operative therapy for MEC. The present study reports an Institutional Review Board-approved case of a 45-year-old Japanese female diagnosed with low-grade MEC in the hard palate. Radical resection, supraomohyoid neck dissection and antero-lateral thigh flap reconstruction was performed. A MEC cell line was then established from the resected tumor tissue. Short tandem repeat profiling confirmed the origin and authenticity of the cell line, that harbors a CRTC1-MAML2 translocation, which is frequently observed in MEC. Amphiregulin (AREG), identified as one of the targets of the CRTC1-MAML2 fusion gene, was expressed in the cell line. The AREG receptor, epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) was also highly phosphorylated. The results predicted that AREG-EGFR signaling, which is required for tumor growth and survival, might be activated in the cell line in a cell-autonomous manner. As AREG expression is associated with EGFR-targeted drug resistance, this cell line might assist with the identification of novel strategies for MEC treatment.