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ISSN 1405-0625 (Print)

2026, Number 2

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Cir Plast 2026; 36 (2)

Pedicled anterolateral thigh flap for knee reconstruction: a case report

Perales-Ruiz JL, Ávalos-Trejo OA, Rodríguez-Villa MF, Gutiérrez-Ramírez LA, Reyes-Montero CF, Lacombe-Bringas D

Language: Spanish
References: 26
Page: 169-174
PDF size: 3286.13 Kb.


ABSTRACT

The reverse-flow pedicled anterolateral thigh flap has emerged as a promising alternative for coverage of complex knee defects, although its use remains sparsely documented in the literature. Its versatility, wide coverage range, and low donor-site morbidity makes it a valuable option, especially in centers without microsurgical infrastructure. We present the case of a 64-year-old patient who was run over and suffered extensive soft tissue loss in the right knee region, and was treated with a reverse-flow pedicled anterolateral thigh flap. The patient's condition improved with proper integration and preservation of the joint function, exhibiting only partial distal necrosis resolved with surgical remodeling. The literature review identified a limited number of international reports and only two documented cases regarding this technique for knee defects in Mexico, in contrast to the extensive evidence for the medial gastrocnemius flap. This case contributes to strengthening existing evidence, highlighting the reverse-flow pedicled anterolateral thigh flap as a safe, reproducible and effective option for periarticular knee reconstruction in resource-limited settings.


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