Single Stage Reconstruction of Posterior Soft Tissue Ankle Defects with a Free Anterolateral Thigh Flap and Rolled Tensor Fascia Lata for Functional Tendo-Achilles Reconstruction - A Case Report and Review of the Literature

Abstract

Soft tissue defects in the posterior ankle region with underlying Achilles tendon loss pose a reconstructive challenge to both Orthopaedic and Plastic surgeons. Such injuries can result in a severely debilitating sequelae for the patient, therefore reconstruction of the area must provide reliable function and durability with minimal complications and aesthetically pleasing results to enable normal foot wear. We describe the case of a twenty-seven year old male, who presented following a traumatic open rupture of the Achilles tendon and failed reverse sural artery flap. We performed a single stage composite soft tissue reconstruction with a free anterolateral thigh (ALT) flap and rolled vascularised Tensor Fascia Lata (TFL) for functional Achilles tendon reconstruction. The patient had no post-operative complications and was able to fully weight bear and dorsiflex his foot beyond ninety degrees at seven month follow-up. Whilst many options are available to reconstruct this area, we review the literature to illustrate the advantages of using this technique to achieve all of the above factors, and advocate for all foot and ankle surgeons to be aware of its use in their reconstructive repertoire.