Discussion: Use of the Fix and Flap Approach to Complex Open Elbow Injury: The Role of the Free Anterolateral Thigh Flap

Fast improvements in microsurgery have opened new strategies in the field of reconstructive trauma surgery that can be applied to severe elbow trauma management. The disadvantages of pedicle flaps can be overcome in the hand of an experienced trauma surgeon by using free flaps based on the perforators. This provides the patient with the best possible wound cover within the optimal time frame and the treatment of underlying additional structural damage. Although the authors presented only a small number of cases, the results of this study are promising and encourage the use of the ALT flap for the treatment of severe elbow trauma.