Radical tumor ablations in the head and neck area require intricate reconstructive procedures.
This is even more so in the setting of HIV where more advanced disease is observed at presentation resulting in poorer outcomes and increased complications. Free tissue transfer has enabled preservation of function and aesthetics while upholding oncologic surgery principles. The anterolateral thigh (ALT) flap is a very reliable workhorse flap in this regard. We present a case of a 51-year-old HIV positive male with oral squamous cell carcinoma that was resected and the resultant defect reconstructed with a free, sensate, chimeric
anterolateral thigh (ALT) flap. The patient was followed up closely. Initial intensive free flap monitoring and subsequent routine clinical reviews were undertaken. Sixweek postoperative review revealed a healthy well incorporated flap that successfully resurfaced both intraoral and cutaneous defects.
A chimeric ALT flap is an excellent choice to resurface both the intraoral and cutaneous defects.
The lateral femoral cutaneous nerve of the thigh can be used to restore sensation in complex through and through cheek defects after oncologic surgery.
Key words: Chimeric, sensate flap, HIV positive, Head and neck reconstruction