The Role of Split Anterolateral Thigh Free Flaps in Reconstructive Surgery: a Systematic Review and Case Report

Abstract

Radical tumor ablation or severe trauma can result in challenging tissue defects. The split anterolateral thigh free flap has been promoted as an ideal option for complex defects. We aimed to evaluate whether this flap could be performed without major morbidity. A systematic review following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis guidelines was conducted to assess this hypothesis. An illustrative case about pharyngeal reconstruction is discussed, and the role of free split anterolateral thigh free flaps in modern reconstructive surgery is evaluated. The systematic search of literature yielded 221 studies with 7 articles about free anterolateral thigh flaps fully split in two separate flaps based on one pedicle. Favorable outcomes in a total of 31 patients were described. Tissue defects were mainly located at extremities, chest wall, lip, and cheek. A low complication incidence was reported in all studies, in terms of flap loss, donor site morbidity, and general wound healing problems. The flap was utilized for pharyngeal reconstruction and simultaneous neck resurfacing, which allowed a more convenient way of flap monitoring in the present case. Being technically a rather demanding flap variant, splitting the anterolateral thigh free flap has still become an accepted technique among microsurgeons. Currently, literature suggests that it can be performed without major complications for reconstructing extremities and the head and neck area. Rearrangement of the flap units in pharyngeal reconstruction increases the flap’s versatility as it allows neck resurfacing and external monitoring of buried inaccessible flaps.