A1 Refereed original research article in a scientific journal
Free Versus Pedicled Anterolateral Thigh Flap for Abdominal Wall Reconstruction
Authors: Pietro G. Di Summa, William Watfa, Corrado Campisi, Salvatore Giordano, Carlo M. Oranges, Leslie Elahi-Rausis, Olivier Bauquis, Dieter Hahnloser, Nicolas Demartines, Wassim Raffoul
Publisher: International Institute of Anticancer Research
Publication year: 2019
Journal: Anticancer Research
Journal name in source: Anticancer research
Journal acronym: Anticancer Res
Volume: 39
Issue: 12
First page : 6759
Last page: 6768
ISSN: 0250-7005
eISSN: 1791-7530
DOI: https://doi.org/10.21873/anticanres.13891
Web address : https://doi.org/10.21873/anticanres.13891
Self-archived copy’s web address: https://research.utu.fi/converis/portal/detail/Publication/45578607
Background/aim: Large full thickness abdominal wall defects following malignancies can be a reconstructive challenge. The purpose of this study was to analyze long-term outcomes and complications following abdominal wall reconstruction using composite antero-lateral thigh (ALT) flaps.
Patients and methods: The study retrospectively investigated 16 consecutive patients who underwent abdominal wall reconstruction with autologous flap between May 2003 and March 2018. Volumetric flap analysis was used to assess flap atrophy over time, evaluating the role of denervation and reinnervation. The long-term outcome was assessed to compare the two groups (free vs. pedicled ALT flap reconstructions).
Results: All flaps successfully covered the defects. We found a significant increase in flap resorption in free flaps when compared to pedicled ones. Abdominal bulging was seen in 3 out of 16 (19%) patients after more than 12 months follow-up, in close correlation with mesh absence.
Conclusion: Free flaps were shown to be equally effective as their pedicled counterparts, without significant increase in complication rate.
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