A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Anterolateral Thigh Flap Outcomes in High-Risk Diabetic Foot Reconstruction.

ABSTRACT: Background: Complex diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) are a leading cause of morbidity and lower-limb amputation, and their management is profoundly challenging. Microvascular free tissue transfer is a primary limb salvage strategy, with the anterolateral thigh (ALT) free-flap recognized as a workhorse reconstructive solution. However, a quantitative summary of its performance specifically within this high-risk patient population is lacking. Methods: A systematic review and single-arm meta-analysis was conducted in accordance with PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines. Five electronic databases (PubMed/MEDLINE, Embase, Scopus, Cochrane, and Web of Science Core Collection) were searched up to 9 September 2025 to identify studies repor

SUBMITTER: Abu-Baker A 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12693217 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature