[The application of pedicled anterolateral thigh fasciocutaneous flaps for reconstruction of perineal and inguinal defects].

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate a method for the reconstruction of defects of perineum and groin with pedicled anterolateral thigh fasciocutaneous flaps.

METHODS: From July 2003 to February 2005, 12 pedicled anterolateral thigh fasciocutaneous flap based on the perforators of lateral circumflex femoral artery had been designed and transferred to the defects of perineum and groin.

RESULTS: Anterolateral thigh fasciocutaneous island flaps were performed in twelve patients. The size of the transferred flap ranged from 8 cm x 11 cm to 18 cm x 20 cm. Only one patient developed superficial cutaneous necrosis in the posterior aspect of the flap because of fecal contamination and infection. The wounds healed secondarily.

CONCLUSIONS: Despite variable vascular anatomy and technical difficulties in elevating the anterolateral thigh flap, the anterolateral thigh flap is a good choice for perineum and groin reconstruction.