Transplantation of perforator flaps: Systematic review of 108 case series

Abstract

Objective To explore the clinical outcome of perforator flaps for reconstruction of limb soft tissue defects. Methods In this case series, from 2007 July to 2009 May, 108 cases of perforator flap to reconstruct the defects of the extremities were performed, of these, 98 were free perforator flaps, 10 were pedicled flaps. The perforator flaps included deep inferior epigastric artery perforator flap, anterolateral thigh perforator flap, thoracodorsal artery perforator flap, lateral thigh perforator flap, posterior interosseous artery perforator flap, collateral radial artery perforator flap, medial sural artery perforator flap, posterior tibial artery perforator flap, deep circumflex iliac artery perforator flap and peroneal artery perforator flap. The maximum size of the perforator flap was 44 cmx 9 cm, the minimum size of the perforator flap was 4 em x 2 cm.The donor defect was closed directly. Results Venous congestion occurred in 5 flaps, in 1 case venous congestion was overcomed after released the dressing, 4 flaps requiring reexploration for venous insufficiency,2 had a successful outcome, the other 2 flaps failed . The other 103 flaps were successful. The wounds healed without any infection complications. The follow-up ranges from 6-24 months( 10 months on average). The flaps were of good appearance and not bulky; there were only linear scars on the donor sites, the cosmesis and function of the donor sites were satisfying. Conclusion The muscle, deep fascia and motor nerve are not contained in the flap, the advantages of this type of flap is reducing morbidity of the donor site and its reliable blood supply and suitable thickness for resurfacing, no secondary debuiking is necessary. The perforator flaps can be chosen as the first option to deal with superficial extremity wounds. Key words: Perforator flaps; Limbs; Transplantation; Reconstruction ; Mierosurgery