The proximally pedicled anterolateral thigh flap for reconstruction of complex soft tissue wounds of the hip and caudal trunk region

Introduction Groin and lower trunk defects are common problems, especially for elderly patients. While groin defects are often due to prior vascular interventions, trochanteric defects are mainly caused by pressure sores. Plastic reconstructive methods are manifold; however, the pedicled anterolateral thigh (ALT) flap is supposed to be reliable with sustainable results. Objective We present our experiences using the pedicled ALT flap for soft tissue reconstruction in patients with large wounds of the medial and lateral proximal thigh. Materials and methods A total of 16 patients with groin and lower trunk defects due to prior vascular surgery or pressure sores received locoregional soft tissue reconstruction using a proximal pedicled ALT flap. Patient characteristics, defect size, surgery time, clinical outcome and complication rate were assessed. Results With the exception of two cases, sufficient soft tissue reconstruction was achieved. In all, 81,3% of patients were categorized as ASA (American Society of Anesthesiologists) 3. The average duration of surgery was 149 min. Length of stay was 18,3 days. A total of 31% needed revision surgery due to limited wound healing problems. Two patients died. All patients showed healed wound conditions when they were discharged. Conclusion The proximal pedicled ALT-flap is a reliable method for soft tissue reconstruction in groin and lower trunk defects. This reconstructive procedure enables reliable wound closure, especially in elderly patients with substantially reduced general health condition.