Feasibility of Super-thin Anterolateral Thigh Free Flap for Oral and Pharyngeal Reconstruction.

Abstract

Objectives: To highlight the feasibility of employing super-thin ALT free flaps for reconstruction of complex oral cavity and oropharyngeal defects.

Methods: Retrospective chart review.

Results: Sixteen super-thin ALT free flaps were performed in 15 patients between 2020 and 2023 for reconstruction of oral cavity defects (seven oral tongue, three floor of mouth, three buccal, two oropharynx, one lower lip). Flap success rate was 100% with only minor complications reported, with no patient requiring return to the operating room within 30 days and no patient requiring radial forearm free flap reconstruction. One patient experienced partial flap failure, one patient experienced superficial necrosis of the distal skin paddle measuring 1 cm, and one patient was converted intraoperatively to a contralateral traditional ALT free flap due to insufficient perforator size. Average operative time was 509 min, average length of hospitalization was nine days, and two patients required gastrostomy placement prior to discharge for dysphagia.

Conclusions: Super-thin ALT free flap harvest technique represents a feasible option for oral cavity and oropharyngeal reconstruction in select patients and does not require additional surgical training, invasive testing, or technology. It can be readily adopted by reconstructive surgeons with a simple adaptation in existing ALT harvest technique.

Level of evidence: Level 4 Laryngoscope, 2024.