First web-space reconstruction by the anterolateral thigh flap.

Four patients with severe contracture of the first web space were treated with an anterolateral thigh perforator flap. The flap size ranged from 10 to 13 cm in length and from 7 to 8 cm in width. The donor site was closed directly and thinning of the flap was performed in all cases. All flaps survived and there were no re-explorations. Web space opening was maintained over the follow-up period. There was an average postoperative increase of the angle of the first web space of 61 degrees. The thinned anterolateral thigh flap provides a pliable vascularized tissue for resurfacing the skin after release of severe contracture of the first web space and represents a reliable alternative to other flaps.