Observational study of the long-term impact of donor-site sequelae after head and neck reconstruction by free anterolateral thigh flap.

Objective: Free anterolateral thigh flap has many applications in head and neck reconstruction surgery. The aims of the present study were: (1) to assess functional and esthetic sequelae of harvesting for oncologic purposes; and (2) to assess long-term impact of harvesting on quality of life according to patient and to physician.
Materials and Methods: Forty-one patients undergoing reconstruction by free anterolateral thigh flap following oncologic head and neck surgery were assessed by questionnaire at>6 months postoperatively. Donor site sequelae were assessed in consultation. Harvesting impact was assessed on 5-point Likert scales by patient and by surgeon.
Results: Thirty nine percent of patients showed≥1 sequelae. Donor site sequela impact on sport, daily living and work was assessed by patients as none or mild in 94%, 98% and 100% of cases, respectively. Sixty-one percent of patients and 58.5% of surgeons considered scar esthetics to be discreet or very discreet.
Conclusion: Morbidity related to anterolateral thigh flap harvesting was low, and functional sequelae at the donor site were well tolerated. The scar was only moderately satisfactory, but could easily be hidden.
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