Use Of Perforator Flaps Research Articles

Surface to Perforator Index: Assessing the Importance of the Number of Perforators in Successful Harvesting of the Anterolateral Thigh Flap.

The use of perforator flaps has become more popular with improvement of surgical technique, technology, as well as understanding of microvascular anatomy. The selection of well-perfused angiosomes is critical to the successful outcome of patients undergoing free tissue transfer. The number of perforators that are needed is dependent upon the surface area of the flap being harvested; however, there have been no studies to assess the optimal surface area supplied by each perforator. We hypothesized that the smaller the surface area supplied by each perforator correlated with fewer flap-related complications in the harvesting of the anterolateral thigh (ALT) flap. All ALT flaps harvested from 2015 to 2021 at our institution were retrospectively reviewed. The surface area of the flap harvested was calculated as A = πab, where a is the long radius and b is the short radius of the ellipse. The surface-perforator index (SPI) was calculated for each flap by dividing the surface area of the ALT flap by the number of perforators supplying the flap. Our primary outcomes were flap-related complications that included: partial flap loss, dehiscence, and venous congestion. A total of 106 patients were identified. Twenty-four patients (22.6%) developed perforator-related complications. An increasing SPI and SPI to body surface area were strongly associated with development of complications (adjusted odds ratio [95% confidence interval], adjusted p: 1.02 [1.01, 1.03], < 0.001and 1.23 [1.12, 1.42], p < 0.001). An SPI of greater than 150 cm2/perforator was associated with a higher probability of complications (p < 0.001). Flap-related complications are significantly related to the number of perforators supplying the flap. The smaller the surface area supplied by a single perforator correlates with significantly fewer flap-related complications. SPI is a new index that may be used as a predictive tool to aid in identifying flaps that may be more prone to complications in free tissue transfer.

Outcomes of DIEP flap reconstruction after pelvic cancer surgery: A retrospective multicenter case series

Flap reconstruction is often required after pelvic tumor resection to reduce wound complications. The use of perforator flaps has been shown to reduce donor site morbidity. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the outcomes of pedicled deep inferior epigastric perforator (pDIEP) flap reconstruction. This was a retrospective multicenter study of patients who underwent immediate pDIEP flap reconstruction for a pelvic or perineal defect after tumor resection between November 2012 and June 2022. The primary outcome was abdominal donor site morbidity, and the secondary outcome was perineal morbidity. Thirty-four patients (median age, 57.5 years) who underwent pelvic exenteration (n=31), extralevator abdominoperineal excision (n=2), or extended vaginal hysterectomy (n=1) were included. The most common indications were recurrent cervical (n=19) and anal (n=4) squamous cell carcinoma. Twenty-nine patients (85%) had a history of radiotherapy. Only one patient (3%) had major (Clavien-Dindo ≥ III) donor site complications (surgical site infection due to tumor recurrence). Eleven patients (32%) had at least one major recipient site complication (surgical site infection [n=1], total [n=2] or partial [n=1] flap loss, perineal dehiscence [n=2], hematoma [n=1], fistula [n=5]). No incisional or perineal hernias were observed during follow-up. Ninety-day survival was 100%. Pedicled DIEP flap reconstructions performed by experienced surgical teams had good outcomes for perineal or vaginal reconstruction, with low abdominal morbidity, in patients with advanced pelvic malignancies who had undergone median laparotomy. The risks and benefits of this procedure should be carefully evaluated preoperatively using clinical and imaging data.

Perforator flaps for vulvar reconstruction: basic principles.

In vulvar cancer, the standard treatment is radical local excision, with immediate reconstruction. Reconstruction aims to restore anatomy and function of the external female genitalia, facilitating preservation of normal body image, sexual function, and micturition and defecation functions. The purpose of this paper is to describe the principles of perforator flaps for vulvar reconstruction. Basic concepts, indications and operative technique are discussed and detailed. In vulvar reconstruction, the use of perforator flaps is a superior surgical technique when compared to the use of conventional flaps.

“Thou shalt not throw away a living thing” - Innovative use of perforator flaps in abdominal wall reconstruction.

Abdominal wall reconstruction represents a complex challenge for plastic surgeons, given the variable range of clinical situations requiring restoration of abdominal wall integrity. When significant myofascial defects are encountered, repair with either a synthetic or biological mesh is indicated, both of which have advantages and drawbacks. Taking inspiration from Gillies' fourth commandment of plastic surgery- Thou shalt not throw away a living thing -an innovative technique to obtain a vascularized autologous mesh from the tissues usually discarded during abdominal contouring procedures was conceived. The authors describe how to maximize the use of perforator flaps derived from abdominoplasty excision patterns in abdominal wall reconstruction to simultaneously obtain restoration of abdominal wall integrity and improvement of the abdominal contour.

Efficiency Assessment of Multidetector-Row Computed Tomographic Angiography Using Reconstruction with Locoregional Perforator Flaps.

Background: Reconstruction with the use of perforator flaps makes it possible to make the skin surface resistant to the influence of mechanical factors and as similar to the lost skin cover as possible. However, while planning any flap, along with the design of the required shape and size, its blood supply should be taken into account to ensure optimal viability. Therefore, the task to precisely determine the topographic-anatomical relationships suitable for the formation of a pedicle of perforators is still relevant. The aim of this study was to increase the efficiency of surgical reconstruction of wound defects by transposition of locoregional perforator flaps. Methods: The authors conducted a retrospective analysis of 72 cases of reconstruction by means of locoregional perforator flaps with vascular pedicle detachment to determine the efficiency of preoperative diagnostic preparation with the help of multidetector-row computed tomographic angiography (MDCT) in the process of reconstruction. Thirty-seven individual cases of surgical interventions were chosen using a case-controlled study from the study group when MDCT with angiography was used for preoperative planning of perforator flaps, as well as 35 control cases similar in terms of important predictive peculiarities with the reconstruction at the same level of difficulty. The patient groups were precisely matched by gender (P = .950), age (P = .804), flap area (P = .192), and type of reconstruction that was performed. Results: In all cases, the location of the perforator with a diameter greater than 1.0 mm was marked. All perforators determined during MDCT scanning were faultlessly localized intraoperatively. The distance between the intraoperative position of the perforator and the position obtained in the result of the examination did not exceed 1 cm. There was no need to change the planned design of the flap intraoperatively. In all cases where MDCT was performed, the duration of the surgical procedure varied from 60 to 150 minutes (average: 120.77 [18.90] minutes) and was reduced by 49.40 minutes (95% CI: 39.17-59.63) compared with the patients who did not undergo preoperative visualization of perforators where the average duration of the operation was 170.17 (19.19) minutes (from 140 to 220 minutes). Among the patients examined by MDCT, surgical complications were noted in 5 cases (13.51%) compared to 14 cases (40.00%) in the control group. Conclusions: The preoperative MDCT for the locoregional perforator flap reconstruction makes it possible to increase the efficiency of patient treatment given the reduction in surgery duration by 49.40 minutes (95% CI: 39.17-59.63) on average and the reduction in the level of postsurgery complications from 40% to 13.5% compared with the group of patients in whom presurgical visualization was not performed (P = .031).

A Multicentric Prospective Cohort Study of Modified Lateral Intercostal Artery Perforator Flap in Partial Breast Reconstruction.

Oncoplastic breast surgery is well established in many parts of the world and is gaining popularity in the rest of the world. The cornerstone in oncoplastic breast surgery is to respect oncological principles during cancer resection maintaining good aesthetic and cosmetic outcome. With the advancement in local, regional, and systemic treatment for breast cancer, survival has improved, and patients live longer. It is utmost essential to help our patients to maintain a good quality of life. Aesthetic and cosmetic outcomes have a significant impact on patient's psychosocial, emotional, and sexual well-being.Oncoplastic techniques have evolved over the last decade with the increasing use of perforator flaps to enable partial breast reconstruction. We report the findings of a prospective cohort study using modified lateral intercostal artery perforator in partial breast reconstruction. This modified technique offers a less visible scar and good access to the axilla without any need for repositioning the patient during the operative procedure. A retrospective review of a prospectively maintained database of patients who underwent partial breast reconstruction with a modified lateral intercostal artery perforator flap was carried out between July 2016 and January 2020 in 2 oncoplastic breast units. The study had local approval from the respective audit departments. Patient demographics, operative data, surgical complications, and outcomes were collected and analyzed. Forty-one patients underwent the procedure between July 2016 and January 2020. The median age of the population data was 58 years (interquartile range, 9 years). There were 10 active smokers (24.4%), and 3 patients had diabetes mellitus (7.3%). Overall, 3 patients (7.1%) developed seroma, 1 had a hematoma (2.4%), and 1 had a locoregional recurrence (2.4%). Two patients (4.9%) underwent margin re-excision for close margins. Most patients (92%) had the procedure carried out as day-case surgery. None of the patients developed wound infection, necrosis, or flap loss. The results were comparable across the 2 participating units. The data suggest that modified intercostal artery perforator flap is an excellent oncoplastic technique for volume replacement in partial breast reconstruction with a short learning curve and minimal perioperative morbidity.

Algorithm for Free Perforator Flap Selection in Lower Extremity Reconstruction Based on 563 Cases.

Microsurgical lower extremity reconstruction remains a challenge. The use of perforator flaps in lower extremity reconstruction is expanding. The authors present an algorithm to guide in the selection of the ideal free perforator flap that can be tailored to each lower extremity defect. The authors conducted a retrospective review of lower extremity reconstruction using free perforator flaps over a 7-year period. Demographics, comorbidities, defect characteristics, operative details, complications, and secondary procedures were documented. Pairwise comparisons of flap types were performed to differentiate flaps on the basis of flap size, thickness, and pedicle length. A total of 563 free perforator flaps were performed. The most common causes were trauma (36.5 percent) and diabetes (24.4 percent). Nine flaps were used, with the most common being superficial circumflex iliac perforator (51.2 percent) and anterolateral thigh (33.2 percent). Size differed significantly between flap types (p < 0.05), with the exception of thoracodorsal artery perforator versus gluteal artery perforator flaps (p = 0.26). The thinnest flaps were posterior interosseous artery perforator (3.7 ± 0.5 mm) and superficial circumflex iliac perforator (5.4 ± 0.8 mm). The thickest flaps were deep inferior epigastric perforator (11.1 ± 3.9 mm) and anterolateral thigh (9.0 ± 1.5 mm). The shortest pedicles were in posterior interosseous artery perforator (3.3 ± 0.3 cm) and superficial circumflex iliac perforator flaps (5.2 ± 0.8 cm). The longest pedicles were in deep inferior epigastric perforator (11.7 ± 1.4 cm), thoracodorsal artery perforator (9.3 ± 1.4 cm), and anterolateral thigh flaps (9.2 ± 0.8 cm). Free perforator flaps are reliable in lower extremity reconstruction. The authors believe their algorithm for flap selection helps to optimize form and function, decrease operative time, and minimize donor-site morbidity and secondary procedures. Therapeutic, IV.

Traitement radical de la maladie de Verneuil : comparaison de l’utilisation du derme artificiel et des lambeaux perforants pédiculés

The objective of this study was to compare the use of artificial dermal and perforator flap after radical surgery of severe axillary and perineal hidradenitis suppurativa disease. The data on postoperative outcomes, scar assessment (POSAS) and quality of life (DLQI, SF-36) were collected during consultation or by phone call. Forty-seven patients were included in our study between January 2015and September 2017, including 27patients in the artificial dermal group and 20patients in the perforator flap group. The quality of life assessment by the SF-36questionnaire showed a significant increase in quality of life in both groups (P<0.05), higher in the perforating flap group (P<0.001). The DLQI questionnaire showed a decrease in the impact of MV on quality of life in both groups, which was greater in the perforator flap group (P<0.05). The scarring assessment by the POSAS patient and observer questionnaire showed a better overall opinion in the perforator flap group (P<0.001). In the perforator flap group, the total hospital stay and healing time was shorter (P<0.001) and the return to work was faster (P<0.001). The artificial dermis and the perforator flaps are very useful coverage solutions after radical surgery of hidradenitis suppurativa. The use of perforator flaps, however, seems more interesting while simplifying the post-operative course.

The use of perforator flaps for the reconstruction of sacral defects

Background: Despite advances in reconstruction techniques, sacral defects continue to challenge surgeons. The perforator flap preserves the entire contralateral side as a future flap donor site and the gluteal muscle itself on the ipsilateral side to minimize donor-site morbidity. Materials and Methods: Between April 2003 and March 2013, data obtained from 60 patients with sacral defects reconstructed with perforator flaps were retrospectively analyzed. Results: We analyzed the sacral defects reconstructed with three different perforator flaps into the following groups: group 1, 30 patients with superior gluteal artery perforator flaps, (average flap size was 83.8 cm2); Group 2, 19 patients with parasacral perforator flaps (average flap size was 94.2 cm2); and Group 3, 11 patients with inferior gluteal artery perforator flaps (average flap size was 85.8 cm2). The overall flap survival rate was 93.3% (56/60). Conclusion: Perforator flaps are a reliable option for soft-tissue defect reconstruction as they provide a sufficient amount of tissue to cover large sacral defects. We recommend perforator flaps as a viable alternative in the management of sacral defects that cannot be reconstructed with primary closure or local fasciocutaneous flaps.

The usefulness of pedicled perforator flap in partial breast reconstruction after breast conserving surgery in Korean women.

BackgroundThe emergence of breast-conserving surgery combined with radiotherapy as the treatment of choice for early stage breast cancer has resulted in greater focus on oncoplastic breast surgery. The use of perforator flaps has particularly gained in reputation for its effectiveness in the reconstruction of partial breast defects in Korean women. Herein, we present our experience with the use of thoracodorsal artery perforator (TDAP) and lateral intercostal artery perforator (LICAP) flaps.MethodsThis study included 33 patients who underwent breast reconstruction using TDAP or LICAP flaps at our hospital from January 2011 to December 2014. Data from patient medical records, and patient satisfaction surveys, which were conducted 12 months postoperatively, were retrospectively evaluated.ResultsTDAP and LICAP flap-based reconstructions were performed in 14 and 19 patients, respectively. Five patients developed complications that required additional intervention. Overall patient satisfaction was observed to be excellent in 15 (46%) patients, and good in 12 (36%).ConclusionsBased on our experience, oncoplastic breast surgery using TDAP or LICAP flap is an effective remodeling technique for small-to-moderate breast defects in Korean women with smaller breasts.

The Use of Perforator Flaps in Lower Extremity Traumatic Defect Reconstruction in the Pediatric Population.

The Use of Perforator Flaps in Lower Extremity Traumatic Defect Reconstruction in the Pediatric Population.

A Wise Surgical Approach for Reconstruction of Postburn Axillary Contractures and Versatility of Perforator Flaps.

Postburn axillary adduction contractures should essentially be released for adequate shoulder function. Many methods have been described for this purpose. However, use of perforator flaps prevents harm to the underlying muscle and provides thin, pliable skin flaps. Despite the major advantages offered by perforator flaps, certain shortcomings of perforator flap surgery restrict their widespread use by inexperienced surgeons, including anatomic variations of perforator vessels. In order to rule out these shortcomings, we devised a new surgical approach with an initial incision that provides access to possible perforator systems on the dorsolateral thoracic area. The approach can easily be converted to a fasciocutaneous transposition flap when attempts for identification of a proper perforator fail. Nevertheless, a proper perforator can easily be reached through the exposure provided by this initial incision. With the intention of using perforator-based flap for reconstruction, we used this surgical approach for coverage in 14 cases of postburn axillary contractures. In 3 cases, conversions of the initial incision to local transposition flap (parascapular flap) were required. There was only 2 tip necrosis observed, which healed with secondary intention. Our current surgical approach may offer taking the advantages of using a true perforator flap for reconstruction while avoiding a second stress on the patient when an operative plan for perforator flap harvest fails.

Maximizing Outcomes While Minimizing Morbidity: An Illustrated Case Review of Elbow Soft Tissue Reconstruction.

Background. Injuries to the elbow have led to consequences varying from significant limitation in function to loss of the entire upper limb. Soft tissue reconstruction with durable and pliable coverage balanced with the ability to mobilize the joint early to optimize rehabilitation outcomes is paramount. Methods. Methods of flap reconstruction have evolved from local and pedicled flaps to perforator-based flaps and free tissue transfer. Here we performed a review of 20 patients who have undergone flap reconstruction of the elbow at our institution. Discussion. 20 consecutive patients were identified and included in this study. Flap types include local (n = 5), regional pedicled (n = 7), and free (n = 8) flaps. The average size of defect was 138 cm2 (range 36–420 cm2). There were no flap failures in our series, and, at follow-up, the average range of movement of elbow flexion was 100°. Results. While the pedicled latissimus dorsi flap is the workhorse for elbow soft tissue coverage, advancements in microvascular knowledge and surgery have brought about great benefit, with the use of perforator flaps and free tissue transfer for wound coverage. Conclusion. We present here our case series on elbow reconstruction and an abbreviated algorithm on flap choice, highlighting our decision making process in the selection of safe flap choice for soft tissue elbow reconstruction.

Dorsal Intercostal Artery Perforator Propeller Flaps: A Reliable Option in Reconstruction of Large Meningomyelocele Defects.

Several options have been reported for the reconstruction of myelomeningocele defects. In this article, we present our experience on soft tissue reconstruction of myelomeningocele defects by using island propeller dorsal intercostal artery perforator (DIAP) flaps. Between January 2008 and February 2014, all newborns with large myelomeningocele defects (13 newborns) were reconstructed with island propeller DIAP flaps. All flaps survived completely. In 8 patients out of 13, venous insufficiency was observed which then resolved spontaneously. Flap donor sites were closed primarily. Myelomeningocele defects with a diameter larger than 5 cm require reconstruction with flaps. To mobilize a well-vascularized tissue over the defect without tension in which the suture lines will not overlap over the midline where the dura is repaired and over the meninges is one of the goals of reconstruction for such defects. Perforator propeller flaps enable us to reach those goals. Use of perforator flaps provides 2 important advantages, namely, more predictability and also more freedom in mobilizing flaps toward the defect. This study proves the reliability of DIAP propeller flaps in the reconstruction of myelomeningocele defects.

Perforator-based island flap with a peripheral muscle patch for coverage of sacral sores

Despite numerous therapeutic advances, the treatment of pressure sores remains a challenge. The increased use of perforator flaps enables surgeons to minimize donor-site morbidity by sparing the underlying muscle. In the presence of focal deep spaces, however, the inclusion of muscle would be beneficial. The goal of this study was to introduce a method for including a muscle patch at the periphery of a perforator-based island flap for coverage of sacral pressure sores. Between March 2010 and February 2015, 26 patients with stage IV sacral sores underwent perforator-based island flap reconstruction with a peripheral muscle patch. Patient characteristics, including sex, age, defect size, and postoperative complications, were recorded. All flaps survived without major complications. No flap necrosis was noted. The present study shows that a muscle patch incorporated into the periphery of a perforator-based flap can be transferred safely. This can be a good surgical option in cases where infection control or more volume is needed.

Closure of Complex Posterior Midline Defects After Spinal Surgery With Sensate Midline-based Perforator Flaps and the Long-term Results.

Prospective study. Evaluating the use of a midline-based perforator flap for closure of complex midline defects after spine surgery complicated with implant exposure and deep subfascial infection. Traditionally, muscle flaps are used to close complex defects after spine surgery complicated by exposed spinal implants and deep subfascial infections. There are no reports on the long-term results on the use of perforator flaps to close these defects. Information was prospectively registered of all patients in whom a medial dorsal intercostal artery perforator (MDICAP) flap was used for closure of a complex midline defect with exposed spinal implant and deep subfascial infection after spine surgery. In 9 patients, 10 MDICAP flaps were used. All flaps survived with only 1 flap experiencing marginal flap necrosis. The flaps provided stable coverage of all defects and spinal instrumentation could be retained in all patients. The perforator flaps provided in all patients, except in the patient with a meningomyelocele, protective sensibility in the reconstructed areas. The mean postoperative hospital stay after closure of the defects was 10 days (range 4-21). During follow-up (mean 65 mo, range 7-106) only 1 patient developed an infection in the operated area which occurred 81 months postoperatively. None of the patients had any functional loss at the donor site of the flap. The medial dorsal intercostal artery perforator flap seems to be a reliable alternative for treatment of complex midline defects with exposed spinal implants and deep subfascial surgical site infections. Protective sensibility may be obtained in the reconstructed area with this flap. Donor site morbidity is minimal. In case of recurrence, complex reconstructive procedures using muscle flaps are still possible. The use of this perforator flap may contribute to shorter hospital stays and reduction of costs. 4.

RECONSTRUCTION OF SOFT TISSUE OF HAND USING ISLAND AND PERFORATOR FLAPS

Objective: to determine the capabilities and perspectives of island and perforator flaps for soft tissue reconstruction of the hand. Material and methods. Results of treatment of 41 patients with defects of the soft tissue of the hand, treated at the in the period from 2010 to 2013 and operated using the island flaps and perforator flaps (DAP flap). Results and conclusion. In all cases the authors have received positive functional and cosmetic results, which were evaluated using a questionnaire DASH, the average score was 12.3. Digital artery perforator flaps allow close defect covering tissue any surface fingers. The use of perforator flaps allows reconstructing soft tissue defect with the skin of the same anatomical region as identical morphologically lost. The second important advantage is that the DAP flap is not included in the magisterial arteries, allows its use as a recipient for subsequent microsurgical reconstructions.

Free perforator flap transfer for reconstruction of skull base defects after resection of advanced recurrent tumor

Skull base reconstruction is challenging due to its proximity to important anatomical structures. This report evaluates the use of perforator flaps for reconstruction of skull base defects after advanced recurrent tumor resection. Fourteen free perforator flaps were transferred to reconstruct skull base defects in 14 consecutive patients, from October 2004 to May 2011. All patients had advanced recurrent neoplasms that were previously treated with either radiation therapy or surgery. The surgical defects were reconstructed using various perforator flaps mainly the deep inferior epigastric artery perforator flaps, anterolateral thigh (ALT) flaps, or thoracodorsal artery perforator flaps. The outcomes following reconstruction and associated complications were evaluated. The overall free flap success rate was 93% (13/14). One ALT flap was lost. Three patients (20%) had a cerebrospinal fluid fistula, and two of them developed meningitis. No complications were observed at the donor site. The use of perforator flaps may be a viable option for reconstruction of skull base defects after the resection of advanced recurrent tumor.

Evidence-Based Medicine

After studying this article, the participant should be able to: 1. Understand the steps for evaluation of a patient with a lower extremity wound before initiating medical or surgical intervention. 2. Acknowledge that limb amputation and salvage can both be appropriate definitive treatment options. 3. Select proper nonsurgical or surgical techniques for wound management. 4. Appreciate the difference in the expected outcome according to the perspective of the physician versus the patient. Lower extremity acute trauma is a common occurrence. Ultimate functional outcomes are similar whether amputation or salvage by limb reconstruction is the treatment pathway chosen. The reconstructive surgeon must be knowledgeable enough to assist in making the correct decision for either option. Débridement is the cornerstone of management before embarking on definitive wound closure. Nonsurgical devices have provided a transition to optimize the wound, sometimes even replacing or lessening the need for vascularized tissues to permit this coverage. Nevertheless, flaps will always have a role varying according to the involved region of the lower extremity. Traditional muscle flaps can often today be supplemented by the use of perforator flaps. The latter have great versatility as pedicled flaps for all zones of the lower limb, in addition to being a dependable free flap alternative. Horrendous injuries can now be expected to be salvaged, with a reasonable aesthetic result possible and with minimal donor-site morbidity. Preferences by both physicians and patients tend to favor the course to limb salvage, but it must be appreciated by the caregiver that it is always the patient who has to live with the residua of an altered limb and lifestyle.

Propeller DICAP flap for a large defect on the back—Case report and review of the literature

Reconstruction of large soft tissue defects of the back is a challenging problem. Large defects of the back were reconstructed with multiple random pattern or local pedicled muscle (and skin graft) or musculocutaneous flaps. The clinical use of perforator flaps has demonstrated that harvesting of flaps on a single perforator is possible for reconstruction of large defects. We present a 71-year-old male with a lesion on his left mid back that measured 10 × 10 × 4 cm(3) . Biopsy of the lesion was consistent with dermatofibrosarcoma protruberans. Wide local excision of the lesion with 4 cm margin was performed. The soft tissue defect, ~20 cm in diameter, was reconstructed with a large propeller dorsal intercostal artery perforator (DICAP) flap. The DICAP flap measured 40 × 15 cm(2) based on a single perforator-lateral branch of dorsal rami of the seventh posterior intercostal artery on the right side. The perforator flap was elevated at the subfascial level and transposed 180° into the defect. The donor site on the right side of the back was closed directly. This case illustrates the size of the propeller DICAP flap that could be safely harvested on a single perforator from the dorsal rami of the posterior intercostal artery. To our knowledge this is the largest reported pedicled perforator flap harvested on a single perforator on the posterior trunk.