Reversed anterolateral thigh adipofascial flap for knee and proximal calf defects

Background Reconstruction of defects involving the knee and proximal one third of the lower leg presents a challenging problem in plastic surgery. Aim To evaluate the reversed anterolateral thigh adipofascial flap for covering such defects. Methods Between September 2006 and May 2007, one man and four women with defects around the knee and upper calf underwent reconstruction with reversed anterolateral thigh adipofascial flaps. The patients’ average age was 45 years (25–72 years). The size of the transferred flap ranged from 6 cm × 8 cm to 12 cm × 13 cm. Results Four flaps with overlying skin grafts healed uneventfully; one skin graft showed minor necrosis due to haematoma, but the adipofascial flap survived well. Postoperatively the appearance of the reconstructive flap was acceptable. Conclusions The reversed anterolateral thigh adipofascial flap is an effective option for covering defects of the knee and proximal calf.