A study on perforating peroneal artery

Abstract

Aims. Peroneal flap with vascular pedicles is considered as a good substitute for limb reconstructions or any other soft tissue defects because of the number of perforating branches given from the PA. Purpose of this study is to evaluate the branching and communicating pattern of distal most perforating peroneal artery (PP). Methods. Dissected lower limbs of 48 cadavers were studied for the course and communications of PP. Results. The study encountered usual as well as variant communications of PP. In about 12% of the study sample PP continued as DPA and in about 6% of the cases it was communicated with DPA dorsal to the talar head region. The most frequent finding in the present study is PP piercing the interosseous membrane between tibia and fibula at about 6 to 6.5cm proximal to the tip of lateral malleolus. In one of the specimens it was piercing the LM at the base of LM. Conclusions. The results of present study imply a cautious dissection to locate an appropriate vascular pedicle for the flap surgery as there are small communications of PP with ATA as well as DPA and PP can also take variant course. Because failure to do so may lead to accidental and serious vascular injuries.