Adipofascial Anterolateral Thigh Free Flaps for Oncologic Hand and Foot Reconstruction

The anterolateral thigh flap (ALT) was first described in 1984 for use in patients suffering from neck burn contracture.[1] Since that time it has proven to be advantageous in numerous different reconstructive scenarios. Despite this versatility, one criticism of the ALT is the propensity for flap thickness adjustments. Several solutions to this problem have been proposed: primary thinning, secondary liposuction, and, recently, the adipofascial ALT flap (aALT).

The aALT is harvested in a similar fashion to the standard fasciocutaneous ALT; however, the skin and subcutaneous adipose tissue are removed from the flap before transfer, leaving an ultrathin flap on the range of 0.5 to 2.8 cm.[2] Herein, we describe our experience using the aALT for reconstruction of oncologic defects of the hand and foot.

• References

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