Application of "simplified nomenclature for compound flaps" to the anterolateral thigh flap.
BACKGROUND
The anterolateral thigh flap is becoming a workhorse flap for soft-tissue and coverage reconstruction. It can be elevated in various ways with various tissues combinations. However, there is no consensus on nomenclature for communication, which has resulted in misunderstanding and confusion.


METHODS
The authors propose a new terminology for classification of the anterolateral thigh flap based on the "simplified nomenclature for compound flaps" introduced by Hallock. The intention of this new terminology is to describe both tissue components and skin vessel type.


RESULTS
Anterolateral thigh flaps can be classified into two subgroups according to the tissue components, as follows: cutaneous or compound. The skin vessel types can also be classified into two subgroups according to the course they traverse: septocutaneous vessel or myocutaneous perforator.


CONCLUSIONS
This classification may bring a consensus on the nomenclature of anterolateral thigh flaps and would be applicable to other perforator flaps.
Wei
Fu-Chan
FC
Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Medical College, Chang Gung University, Taipei, Taiwan. fcw2007@adm.cgmh.org.tw
Celik
Naci
N
Jeng
Seng-Feng
SF
D006801:Humans; D013524:Surgical Flaps / Q000098:blood supply / Q000145:classification*; D009626:Terminology as Topic