Tensor fascia lata flap reconstruction following groin dissection: is it worthwhile?

Abstract

The TFL flap can reduce postoperative morbidity and decrease hospital stay. Prophylactic TFL flap reconstruction following ilioinguinal dissections is advisable.

Tensor fascia lata flap is a workhorse for defects after inguinal lymph node block dissection

“…In the literature diverse complications' rates were mentioned: partial flap necrosis of TFL flaps (0-16%), seroma formation (around 0-15%), wound dehiscence (up to 30%); infection rate ranged in some studies from somewhat similar to our results up to 24% of all cases. Hospital stay ranged from 10 to 16 days [22][23][24][25][26].…”

“…The reliable choice for immediate reconstruction would be the use of local flaps such as tensor fascia lata (TFL) flap [4], inferior based rectus abdominis flap [5,6], or anterior thigh flap [6]. Some authors even recommend the prophylactic use of TFL in cases of ilioinguinal dissection [7]. However, postoperative complications are frequently reported, such as distal flap necrosis, or even, in some cases, compartment syndrome.…”

Use of tensor fascia lata flap for reconstruction of the defect created following inguinal block dissection in a case of carcinoma penis: a case report and brief review of literature

“…[6][7][8][9] Several flaps have been described to cover established groin defects, namely, inferiorly based rectus abdominis muscle or myocutaneous flap, rectus femoris, sartorius with abdominal skin flap, internal oblique muscle flap, and vastus lateralis flaps. [2][3][4][5] These flaps have their advantages and disadvantages. Abdominal weakness, bulging or hernia, and knee weakness are some of the complications associated with these flaps.…”

“…Therefore, it can be used for almost the same indications of ALT flap. [2][3][4][5] The published reports of TFL flap in groin reconstruction following inguinal node dissection have enumerated partial flap necrosis, distal tip necrosis, flap infection and lymphedema as various complications. [2,3,5] In our case, we found TFL perforator flap to be the best choice because it allowed maintaining the same reconstructive plan made with the ALT flap.…”

“…The flap's safe dimensions and adequacy to minimize distal tip necrosis for a sound abdominal wall reconstruction remains controversial. [2][3][4][5] The aim of the present case report was to share our experience and clinical observations with TFL flap used in the reconstruction of a challenging defect following inguinal block dissection in a case of the carcinoma penis.…”