J Korean Soc Surg Hand.  2012 Dec;17(4):183-190. 10.12790/jkssh.2012.17.4.183.

Reconstruction of the Digit Using Anterolateral Thigh Perforator Flap

• Park SH
• Kim HS
• Kim SE

• KMID: 1425261
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.12790/jkssh.2012.17.4.183

Abstract

PURPOSE
We reported the results of the digit reconstruction using anterolateral thigh perforator flap followed by delayed debulking operation.
METHODS
We retrospectively reviewed all patients with digital injury who underwent anterolateral thigh perforator flap and delayed debulking operation. Ten digits in 8 patients were included. Three months after the last operation, the circumferences of the reconstructed digits were measured.
RESULTS
There were no partial or complete flap necrosis. Average circumferences of the reconstructed digits were 111 percent (range: 104-120 percent) of those of the normal digits.
CONCLUSION
Anterolateral thigh perforater flap and delayed debulking operation is a good option for the reconstruction of the large soft tissue defect of the digit.

Keyword

Digit; Soft tissue defect; Anterolateral thigh perforator flap

MeSH Terms

Humans
Necrosis
Perforator Flap
Retrospective Studies
Thigh

Figure

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  Fig. 1 (A) Elevation of the anterolateral thigh flap. The thickness of the flap was seen. (B) After contouring and debulking procedure, flap thickness was measured 2-3 mm.

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  Fig. 2 (A) Bone and soft tissue injury on the middle finger of the right hand. (B) After primary closure, tissue necrosis on the radial half was developed. (C) Postoperative view of anterolateral thigh flap before debulking. (D, E) After the debulking operation, the injured finger was reconstructed with very thin flap.

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  Fig. 3 (A) Degloving injury of the right index finger. (B) Postoperative view of anterolateral thigh flap before debulking. (C, D) After the flap debulking operation, the injured finger was reconstructed with very thin flap.

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  Fig. 4 (A) Severe burn injury on the ring and little finger of the left hand. (B) After the debridement. (C) The injured fingers were covered together by anterolateral thigh flap. Three weeks later, each finger was separated. (D) After the flap debulking and bone shortening operation, the fingers were reconstructed with very thin flaps.

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