ABSTRACT
I. ASSESSMENT The vastus lateralis muscle is a large and versatile muscle flap useful in reconstructing local defects as a pedicled flap and distal defects as a free flap. The largest of the quadriceps muscles, it can be used to cover ischial and trochanteric wounds, as well as wounds of the lower abdomen and perineum. It can be used as a distally based flap for lower extremity defects. The flap can be harvested as a myocutaneous flap if skin is required. If increased size or volume is required, it can be harvested on the same pedicle with the anterolateral thigh flap. If function is not an issue (i.e., paraplegia), it can be harvested with the rectus femoris muscle. Taken with its nerve supply, the vastus lateralis muscle can be used as a functioning muscle transfer as well.
