What Should Define a “Perforator Flap”?

Abstract

In spite of the Gent consensus on perforator flap terminology, widespread confusion still exists regarding the true description of these flaps, making it hard to understand these surgical procedures in comparison with conventional flap techniques. The value of perforator flaps can be better understood by further clarifying certain aspects of previous descriptions. The authors would like to propose enriching the standard Gent nomenclature with optional terms that specify additional aspects of the perforator flap such as including the vessel of origin, the type of vascular dissection, the muscle involved, and the type of perforator vessel. When describing a new flap, these terms will help clarify the anatomical aspects and the surgical approach. Lastly, a better understanding will help in the ongoing debates on this type of surgery and will aid in its dissemination and adoption into reconstructive practice.