Superthin Flap Harvesting Procedure: Technical Note

Arch Plast Surg. 2022 Dec 13;49(6):785-786. doi: 10.1055/s-0042-1758634. eCollection 2022 Nov.

Abstract

The anterolateral thigh (ALT) flap has been extensively discussed in the literature as it allows for a wide variety and depth of tissues for complex wound coverage. Thanks to many cadaveric and angiographic studies of the subdermal plexus, it is to date ascertained that tailoring ALT thickness can be safely performed without compromising flap outcomes or causing additional morbidity. Recently, the authors applied and described a simpler, safer, and less time-consuming superthin ALT perforator (ALTP) free flap harvesting technique. The aim of this article is to show the versatility of the adipofascial flap harvested around the chosen perforators, which allowed us to safely expand the usage of ALTP superthin flaps.

Keywords: dermis; fascia; free tissue flaps; head; microsurgery; morbidity; neck; perforator flap; reconstructive surgical procedures; thigh.