A Comprehensive Flap Classification: Beyond the Reconstructive Ladder.

Abstract

Perforator flaps have progressed massively in the last years. The improved vascular imaging techniques and the use of supermicrosurgery have shifted the practice from the traditional predefined angiosomal flaps to the endless variations of custom-made flaps. In this article, we propose a broadened classification of free-style flaps in 3 categories, the angiosomal, including all traditional perforator flaps and their variations, the extra-angiosomal, including flaps that are manufactured to include tissue from a different angiosome, such as turbocharging or supercharging a flap, and neoangiosomal flaps, which are based on the process of neoangiogenesis on autologous or allogenous tissue, such as the venous flow-through flap and integra flap. With this classification, we hope to help unify the classifications and, by doing so, facilitate the exchange of ideas, techniques and knowledge.MeSH terms: surgical flap / classification, terminology as topic.