Arch Hand Microsurg.  2020 Mar;25(1):55-59. 10.12790/ahm.19.0038.

Reconstruction of Soft-Tissue Defect Around the Knee Using a Pedicled Reverse-Flow Anterolateral Thigh Flap: A Case Report

• Jang N
• Shin HW
• Yoon KC

• KMID: 2501112
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.12790/ahm.19.0038

Abstract

Coverage of traumatic soft-tissue defects around the knee is a challenging problem for reconstructive surgeons though many reconstructive options are available. We planned to use a pedicled reverse-flow anterolateral thigh (ALT) flap using the distal branch of the descending branch of the lateral circumflex femoral artery (LCFA) for pedicle length extension in a patient with the ALT perforator branch originating from the proximal portion of the descending branch of LCFA. We present the successful use of a pedicled reverse-flow ALT flap to cover a soft tissue defect around the knee.

Keyword

Lower extremity; Surgical flaps; Reconstructive surgical procedures

Figure

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  Fig. 1. A soft tissue (20.0 cm×15.0 cm) defects above the knee following several debridement, with significant patella tendon exposure on anterolateral side of the knee.

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  Fig. 2. (A) A pedicled reverse-flow anterolateral thigh flap (12.0 cm×4.0 cm sized) was harvested using musculocutaneous perforator of descending branch of the lateral circumflex femoral artery (LCFA). Descending branch of the LCFA and the perforator to the flap was dissected intramuscularly. (B) The pivot point was determined at about 8 cm above the knee joint and the pedicled reverse-flow anterolateral thigh flap was advanced to cover the patella tendon exposure area.

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  Fig. 3. Photograph of the flap at 3 months of follow-up. Satisfactory healing and contour achieved.

Reference

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