Modified fourth lumbar artery local perforator flap: an alternative for reconstruction of nonhealing lumbosacral spinal defects

BACKGROUND: The reconstruction of nonhealing lumbosacral spinal defects remains a challenge, with limited options. The aim of this article was to review the authors’ technique and experience with the modified fourth lumbar artery local perforator (MFLALP) flap for the coverage of nonhealing lumbosacral defects after spinal surgery. METHODS: Between August 2012 and May 2021, we reviewed all MFLALP flaps performed for lumbosacral spinal defects. Patient demographics, wound aetiologies, surgical characteristics, and outcomes were reviewed retrospectively. RESULTS: A total of 31 MFLALP flaps were performed on 24 patients during the research period. The median flap size was 152 cm(2) (range, 84–441 cm(2)). All flaps survived successfully, although there were two cases of minor complications. One patient had a haematoma and required additional debridement and skin grafting at 1 week postoperatively. The other patient suffered wound dehiscence at the donor site at 2 weeks postoperatively and required reclosure. The follow-up time ranged from 6 months to 5 years. CONCLUSIONS: The MFLALP flap has the advantages of a reliable blood supply, sufficient tissue bulk and low complication rate. This technique is an alternative option for the reconstruction of nonhealing lumbosacral spinal defects. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12893-023-01909-8.