The Adipo-Fascial ALT Flap in Lower Extremities Reconstruction Gustillo IIIC-B Fractures. An Osteogenic Inducer?

J Invest Surg. 2021 Jun;34(6):638-642. doi: 10.1080/08941939.2019.1668092. Epub 2019 Oct 2.

Abstract

Results: Mean time from injury to flap coverage was 72 hours. The mean size of bone defects was 4-7,6 cm. All flaps were Antero Lateral Tight flaps, and the fracture sites did not have any evidence of infection. None of the patients was a smoker. A solid bone union was reached, and full wearing was in a mean of 11 (4-20) weeks after the injury. The lower limb was saved in 100% of the cases.

Conclusion: Despite the goods results, further studies applied on a large number of patients are needed to confirm authors theory, however, we can consider the fascial ALT flap as a valid help for bone healing in 3B-C open tibial fractures.

Keywords: ALT flap; fascial flap; lower extremities reconstruction; microsurgery; osteogenic induction.

MeSH terms

  • Fractures, Open* / surgery
  • Humans
  • Leg Injuries* / surgery
  • Lower Extremity / surgery
  • Plastic Surgery Procedures*
  • Retrospective Studies
  • Surgical Flaps
  • Tibial Fractures* / surgery
  • Treatment Outcome