Journal of Tissue Engineering and Reconstructive Surgery ›› 2023, Vol. 19 ›› Issue (6): 541-.

Previous Articles     Next Articles

 The effectiveness of free anterolateral thigh flap on repairing soft tissue defects in the plantar load-bearing area

  

  • Published:2023-12-28

PDF (PC)

37

Abstract:

Objective　To explore the clinical effect of free anterolateral thigh flap (ALTF) for repairing soft tissue defects
in the plantar load-bearing area. Methods　From March 2020 to March 2021, 12 patients with soft tissue defects in the
plantar weight-bearing area were selected, the soft tissue defect ranged from 8 cm×6 cm to 26 cm×16 cm. After emergency
debridement, ALTF was used to repair soft tissue defects, and the donor site wounds were directly sutured or grafted with full
thickness skin. Results　All 12 flaps survived in this group, with 2 cases showing slight exudation at the edge of the flap and
accompanied by non healing of the wounds. The wounds self-healed after dressing change, debridement, anti-inflammatory
treatment, and other treatments. All 12 patients were followed up for 6-12 months after operation, and the skin flap texture was
relatively soft and the appearance recovery was good. After operation, physical therapy and functional rehabilitation training were
carried out under the guidance of medical staff, and the range of foot movement and strength were basically restored. At the last
follow-up, all patients returned to normal gait. During the final follow-up, there was 1 case with S1 grade sensory function in
the plantar area (8.33%), 3 cases with S2 grade (25.00%), 6 cases with S3 grade (50.00%), and 2 cases with S4 grade (16.67%).
The postoperative foot function scores at week 1, month 3, and month 6 were 46.25±5.27, 73.14±8.42 and 88.74±10.51,
respectively. Statistics showed that Maryland’s foot function score in the 6th month>3rd month>1st week (P<0.05). Conclusion
The use of free ALTF technology for repairing soft tissue defects in the plantar load-bearing area of patients has shown good
clinical results and is worth promoting and applying in clinical practice.

Key words: