Reconstruction of lateral collateral ligament complex of the elbow using iliotibial tract graft simultaneously with free anterolateral thigh flap for extensive soft tissue defects of the lateral elbow

Soft-tissue defects around the elbow present challenges in reconstructive surgery. We report the case of a 26-year-old man with extensive lateral elbow soft tissue defects, irreparable lateral epicondyle and lateral collateral ligament complex (LCLC) damage, and radial head and forearm extensor muscle deficiencies. Treatment involved a free anterolateral thigh (ALT) flap for soft tissue and an iliotibial tract graft for LCLC reconstruction. Postoperative recovery showed favorable outcomes with functional restoration. This case highlights the efficacy of simultaneous LCLC and soft tissue reconstruction using a non-vascularized iliotibial tract graft along with an ALT flap in patients with extensive soft tissue defects requiring LCLC reconstruction around the elbow.