Lateral Thigh Perforator Flap in Breast Reconstruction

Abstract

This chapter will discuss the lateral thigh perforator (LTP) flap for the use in breast reconstructive surgery. The LTP is an alternative flap for those patients in whom the first choice donor site, the abdomen, is not suitable as a do nor site. The history of the LTP flap, also known as the septocutaneous perforator tensor fasciae latae (TFL) flap, is described. Knowledge of the topographical and functional anatomy of the thigh is crucial for a surgeon when harvesting the LTP flap. Preoperative radiological imaging is essential in selecting suitable patients and planning the surgical procedure, which is systematically explained in the paragraph “Surgical Technique.” The authors share their experience and provide the reader with tips to perform a LTP flap breast reconstruction.