The Anterolateral Thigh Flap for Achilles Tendon Reconstruction: Functional Outcomes

BACKGROUND: Following Achilles tendon rupture and repair, reruptures or infections are not infrequent. Consequently, several surgical techniques have been described to decrease complication rates. This study aimed to evaluate the outcomes of the free composite fasciocutaneous anterolateral thigh flap including fascia lata for reconstruction of combined complex soft-tissue and Achilles tendon defects. METHODS: Within an 8-year period, 34 patients having undergone microvascular Achilles tendon reconstruction fulfilled inclusion criteria for this study: 25 of these patients (73.5 percent) returned for follow-up examination, seven of whom (28.0 percent) underwent additional bilateral contact pressure and power measurements. The data were screened for patients' demographics, intraoperative and perioperative details, flap survival, surgical complications, and overall long-term outcomes. RESULTS: Mean follow-up time was 40.8 months. The Thompson test was negative in all patients. The pain score assessed by the Numerical Rating Scale at the reconstructed site was low overall, but showed significant differences between rest and activity (p < 0.05). The assessment of the Vancouver Scar Scale showed very good results with both techniques. The measurements of the peak pressures, power while walking, and foot contact area did not show differences between the operated and nonoperated sides (p > 0.05), whereas range of motion revealed significant differences (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: In patients who suffer complex Achilles tendon injury requiring free flap coverage, the composite anterolateral thigh flap including fascia lata provides a reliable and safe approach with very good functional and aesthetic outcomes. It should be considered one of the first reconstructive options. CLINICAL QUESTION/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic, IV.

Abstract sourced from PubMed (NCBI) for the cited record. See the original publication for the authoritative version.

Following Achilles tendon rupture and repair, reruptures or infections are not infrequent.

Explore cómo esta investigación se conecta con la práctica clínica

More peer-reviewed studies in Seguridad y control de infecciones.

• Leech-Assisted Flap Salvage — Systematic Review of 277 Cases — Whitaker et al. (2012)
• Effects of hirudotherapy on liver functions, lipid profile, and insulin sensitivity in rats with metabolic syndrome — Bilden A et al. (2026)
• Efficacy and Safety of Hirudotherapy for Improving Sperm Quality Parameters in Male Infertility: A Randomized Controlled Trial — Abtahi-Forooshani M et al. (2026)
• Improvement of patient care through hirudotherapy and the management of leeches from their reception to their disposal in France — Vaesken C et al. (2023)
• Hirudotherapy in Medicine and Dentistry — Jha K et al. (2015)
• Management of Chronic Non-healing Wounds by Hirudotherapy — Iqbal A et al. (2017)
• Hirudotherapy attenuates arthritic pain in patients with various chronic pain syndromes: A retrospective analysis — Loeser J et al. (2020)
• Hirudotherapy (medicinal leeches) for treatment of upper airway obstruction in a dog — Trenholme H, Masseau I, Reinero C (2021)
• Analysis of antibiotic resistant infections associated with hirudotherapy — Brauer P et al. (2024)
• Leech Me Alone! Atraumatic Hemarthrosis after Hirudotherapy — Curcio J, Lloyd C (2020)

Browse all ASH-analysed research →