Anterolateral Thigh Adipofascial Flap: A New Option for Scalp Reconstruction

The paradigm for scalp reconstruction has evolved little over the past several decades, with free tissue transfer remaining virtually de rigeur for reconstruction of large surface area defects, especially in the setting of pre- or postoperative radiation therapy.[1]

Craniectomy defect reconstruction focuses on the re-establishment of dural integrity and the protection of central nervous system (CNS) structures.[2] Reconstruction of defects in the absence of full thickness cranial bone resection is associated with less morbidity, and therefore esthetic concerns become relatively more important.

The adipofascial anterolateral thigh (ALT) flap, initially described in 1993,[3] has proven successful in treating a variety of defects in the head and neck.[4] [5] The present study presents the novel use of the adipofascial ALT flap in conjunction with an overlying skin graft for the reconstruction of large surface area scalp defects.

• References

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