The thoracodorsal artery perforator flap with a vascularized scapular segment for reconstruction of a composite lower extremity defect MICROSURGERY Momeni, A., Krischak, S., Bannasch, H. 2006; 26 (7): 515-518

Abstract

High-energy trauma resulting in a composite defect of the lower extremity confronts the microvascular surgeon with more difficulties than do free flap reconstruction elsewhere in the body, since the choice of distant recipient vessels is particularly difficult. Combining principles of perforator flap surgery with those of composite tissue transfer, we designed a thoracodorsal artery perforator flap with a vascularized bone segment from the scapula for reconstruction of a composite lower extremity defect in a patient following a paragliding accident. This is the first report on the application of a composite thoracodorsal artery perforator flap with vascularized scapula in lower extremity reconstruction. Among its multiple advantages, such as preservation of latissimus dorsi function, it is a good tool for one-stage reconstruction of traumatic composite lower extremity defects because its low donor site morbidity and long vascular pedicle enables anastomosis placement outside the zone of injury.

View details for DOI 10.1002/micr.20279

View details for Web of Science ID 000241801500005

View details for PubMedID 17001635