The quadriceps Femoris allograft as an extension of the Angiosome concept: A cadaveric-based anatomical feasibility study.

BACKGROUND: Vascularised composite allo-transplantation (VCA) is emerging as a tailored approach for complex tissue reconstruction. This study focuses on the quadriceps VCA as a potential solution for tissue repair, following trauma, necrotising fasciitis/myositis, or tumor ablation. METHODS: Dissections were undertaken in 10 adult cadaveric lower limbs to characterize the blood supply to the quadriceps femoris for en bloc muscle allo-transplantation. A mock cadaveric transplantation was performed to (a) define the best neurovascular VCA design and (b) test the feasibility of the procedure. A review of 54 archival radiograph studies from the institution was also performed to further evaluate the muscle vasculature. RESULTS: In two lower limbs, the quadriceps VCA was harvested designed on the common and superficial femoral vessels and nerve, which revealed a lengthy and bloody dissection, especially of the veins, which could increase clinically with the inability to use a tourniquet for most of the dissection. However, review of our previous archival studies showed that all four quadriceps muscles are supplied within the lateral circumflex femoral angiosome. In a further eight lower limbs, the quadriceps femoris muscle group consistently received its blood supply from the lateral circumflex femoral angiosome, verified by selective lead oxide injections of this artery. The vastus medialis appeared to have a more tenous blood supply distally based on this angiosome. A successful mock cadaveric transplant was performed based on this data. CONCLUSIONS: We suggest that the best neuromuscular quadriceps VCA should be (a) designed on the lateral circumflex femoral pedicle, (b) should be raised from distal to proximal, and (c) should include the descending genicular vessels as a potential supplemental supply to vastus medialis, should all four muscles be required.

Current evidence for postoperative monitoring of microvascular free flaps: a systematic review.

BACKGROUND: Despite a plethora of monitoring techniques reported in the literature, only a small number of studies directly address clinical relevant end points, such as the flap salvage rate and false-positive rate. METHOD: We conducted a systematic review of current evidence regarding the postoperative monitoring of microvascular free-tissue transfer via extensive electronic and manual search and perusing databases, such as PubMed, Cochrane, American College of Physicians (ACP) Journal Club, Cumulative Index of Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), Excerpta Medica Database (EMBASE), and Ovid MEDLINE. The included literature (n = 184 publications) was critically appraised using March 2009 Oxford Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine definitions, focusing on the evidence for the efficacy of each technique in improving the flap salvage rate of compromised flaps. RESULT: There is a paucity of outcome-based studies, with only implanted Doppler probes, near-infrared spectroscopy, laser Doppler flowmetry, quantitative fluorimetry, and digital photography assessment using smartphones having been demonstrated in comparative studies to improve flap salvage rate. Currently, the implantable Doppler probe is the technique with the largest number of comparative studies and case series to demonstrate its effectiveness compared with clinical monitoring. CONCLUSIONS: Future studies need to evaluate the most promising monitoring techniques further with a focus on assessing clinically relevant outcomes, such as the flap salvage rate and the false-positive rate, and not simple clinical series reporting patient and physician satisfaction.

Autologous fat grafting: current state of the art and critical review.

BACKGROUND: Despite the widespread use of autologous fat grafting in both reconstructive and cosmetic surgery, volume retention remains a significant problem. We aimed to critically appraise the current body of literature in fat grafting to provide a framework to guide application and comparison. METHOD: Search of scientific databases and gray literature was conducted. Articles examining nonadipogenic applications of adipose tissue and those specific to breast reconstruction were excluded. RESULTS: One hundred three articles were included. These fell under the headings of donor site, effect of infiltration solution, harvest method, effect of centrifugation, reinjection method, supplementation, the role of adipose-derived stem cells, and scaffolding. CONCLUSIONS: Despite the significant research effort in this field, there remains no consensus as to the optimum technique. This stems from the vast array of research methods and short follow-up durations. Further, extrapolation of in vitro results to clinical settings has led to many conflicting practices.

The postauricular fascia: classification, anatomy, and potential surgical applications.

In recent times, there has been evolving interest in the fascial structure of the ear, especially in relation to otoplasty techniques. Although the fascial tissues used in these procedures are referred to as "postauricular/retroauricular fascia," the sparse anatomical studies that exist use this terminology to describe what is the adjacent thicker and more fibrous structure of the superficial temporal area continuous with the mastoid region, rather than the tissue actually used in these procedures which is adherent to the posterior surface of the ear. There are clear clinical differences in the properties of these two structures, and this study set out to identify the anatomical nature of these differences, looking in detail at the anatomy and vascularity of the fascia directly posterior and adherent to the ear itself, highlighting its unique properties, and how it interfaces with the rest of the fascia. We provide a nomenclature to differentiate the fascia adherent to the posterior of the ear (the intrinsic postauricular fascia) from the more fibrous tissues continuous with the scalp fascia (the extrinsic postauricular fascia). Clinical applications for the fascia are suggested based on the vascularity and anatomy described, and our clinical experience.

Autologous microsurgical breast reconstruction and coronary artery bypass grafting: an anatomical study and clinical implications.

OBJECTIVE: To identify possible avenues of sparing the internal mammary artery (IMA) for coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) in women undergoing autologous breast reconstruction with deep inferior epigastric artery perforator (DIEP) flaps. BACKGROUND: Optimal autologous reconstruction of the breast and coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) are often mutually exclusive as they both require utilisation of the IMA as the preferred arterial conduit. Given the prevalence of both breast cancer and coronary artery disease, this is an important issue for women's health as women with DIEP flap reconstructions and women at increased risk of developing coronary artery disease are potentially restricted from receiving this reconstructive option should the other condition arise. METHODS: The largest clinical and cadaveric anatomical study (n=315) to date was performed, investigating four solutions to this predicament by correlating the precise requirements of breast reconstruction and CABG against the anatomical features of the in situ IMAs. This information was supplemented by a thorough literature review. RESULTS: Minimum lengths of the left and right IMA needed for grafting to the left-anterior descending artery are 160.08 and 177.80 mm, respectively. Based on anatomical findings, the suitable options for anastomosis to each intercostals space are offered. In addition, 87-91% of patients have IMA perforator vessels to which DIEP flaps can be anastomosed in the first- and second-intercostal spaces. CONCLUSION: We outline five methods of preserving the IMA for future CABG: (1) lowering the level of DIEP flaps to the fourth- and fifth-intercostals spaces, (2) using the DIEP pedicle as an intermediary for CABG, (3) using IMA perforators to spare the IMA proper, (4) using and end-to-side anastomosis between the DIEP pedicle and IMA and (5) anastomosis of DIEP flaps using retrograde flow from the distal IMA. With careful patient selection, we hypothesize using the IMA for autologous breast reconstruction need not be an absolute contraindication for future CABG.

Lymphatic vessel density in primary melanomas predicts sentinel lymph node status and risk of metastasis.

AIMS: Important prognostic factors in patients with cutaneous melanoma include primary tumour thickness/depth of invasion, ulceration and mitotic rate, and the presence of tumour cells in regional lymph nodes. More recently, features of stromal components, such as blood and lymphatic vessel density, have been suggested as additional indicators of metastatic potential. Our aim was to investigate the relationship between tumour lymphatic vessels and lymph node metastasis. METHODS AND RESULTS: Metastasizing (n = 11) and non-metastasizing (n = 11) primary melanoma samples matched for depth/thickness, mitotic rate and ulceration were examined for lymphatic vessel density (LVD) in the primary tumour, using an antibody to podoplanin. Significant differences were found between LVD (vessels/unit area) in the peripheral (5.73 ± 0.67) versus central (1.72 ± 0.42) regions of the metastasizing tumour group (P < 0.001), and between LVD in the peripheral areas of metastasizing (5.73 ± 0.67) versus non-metastasizing (4.21 ± 0.37) tumours (P < 0.01). No overall difference was found between total average LVD in the two tumour groups or between their vessel morphology. CONCLUSION: Our results show that LVD is associated with risk of lymph node metastasis. Furthermore, the ratio of peripheral LVD:central LVD is a useful marker of primary melanomas that are likely to metastasize to lymph nodes.

Relationship of the temporofrontal rami of the facial nerve to the fascial layers of the temporal region.

BACKGROUND: Historically, dissection of the temporoparietal fascia immediately above the zygomatic arch has been avoided due to the risk of transection of the temporofrontal rami of the facial nerve. METHODS: A total of 8 fresh cadaveric hemi-faces have been dissected to investigate the relationship of the temporofrontal rami of the facial nerve to the fascial layers in the temporal region. RESULTS: The relationship of the temporofrontal rami of the facial nerve to the fascial layers in the temporal region is variable, with some deep rami coursing below the parotid-temporal fascia and other superficial rami reaching the temporoparietal fascia before entering the lateral edge of the orbicularis oculi. CONCLUSIONS: Dissection of the temporoparietal fascia immediately above the zygomatic arch may place superficial branches of the temporofrontal rami at risk.

Preoperative imaging for perforator flaps in reconstructive surgery: a systematic review of the evidence for current techniques.

BACKGROUND: Although preoperative imaging of perforator vasculature in planning microvascular reconstruction is commonplace, there has not been any clear demonstration of the evidence for this practice, or data comparing the many available modalities in an evidence-based approach. This article aims to provide an objective, evidence-based review of the literature on this subject. METHODS: The evidence supporting the use of various modalities of imaging was investigated by performing focused searches of the PubMed and Medline databases. The articles were ranked according to the criteria set out in March 2009 Oxford Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine definitions. Endpoints comprised objective outcome data supporting the use of imaging, including flap loss, unplanned returns to theater, operative time reduction, and surgeon-reported stress. RESULTS: The objective high level of evidence for any form of preoperative perforator imaging is low with only small number of comparative studies or case series investigating computed tomographic angiography (CTA), magnetic resonance angiography, handheld Doppler, color duplex, and classic angiography. Of all modalities, there is a growing body of level 2b evidence supporting the use of CTA. CONCLUSION: While further multicenter trials testing hard outcomes are needed to conclusively validate preoperative imaging in reconstructive surgery, sufficient evidence exists to demonstrate that preoperative imaging can statistically improve outcomes, and that CTA is the current gold standard for perforator mapping.

Technology-assisted and sutureless microvascular anastomoses: evidence for current techniques.

BACKGROUND: Since the birth of reconstructive microvascular surgery, attempts have been made to shorten the operative time while maintaining patency and efficacy. Several devices have been developed to aid microsurgical anastomoses. This article investigates each of the currently available technologies and attempts to provide objective evidence supporting their use. METHODS: Techniques of microvascular anastomosis were investigated by performing searches of the online databases Medline and Pubmed. Returned results were assessed according to the criteria for ranking medical evidence advocated by the Oxford Centre for Evidence Based Medicine. Emphasis was placed on publications with quantifiable endpoints such as unplanned return to theatre, flap salvage, and complication rates. RESULTS: There is a relative paucity of high-level evidence supporting any form of assisted microvascular anastomosis. Specifically, there are no randomized prospective trials comparing outcomes using one method versus any other. However, comparative retrospective cohort studies do exist and have demonstrated convincing advantages of certain techniques. In particular, the Unilink™/3M™ coupler and the Autosuture™ Vessel Closure System® (VCS®) clip applicator have been shown to have level 2b evidence supporting their use, meaning that the body of evidence achieves a level of comparative cohort studies. CONCLUSION: Of the available forms of assisted microvascular anastomoses, there is level 2b evidence suggesting a positive outcome with the use of the Unilink™/3M™ coupler and the Autosuture™ VCS® clip applicator. Other techniques such as cyanoacrylates, fibrin glues, the Medtronic™ U-Clip®, and laser bonding have low levels of evidence supporting their use. Further research is required to establish any role for these techniques.

"Choke" vessels between vascular territories of the abdominal wall: literature review and rare case of Leriche's syndrome.

We undertook a review of the anatomical changes of "choke" vessels between the internal thoracic artery (ITA) and deep inferior epigastric artery (DIEA), as highlighted by a case of aortoiliac occlusive disease (Leriche's syndrome), and discuss the physiological concepts observed with regard to surgical delay procedures within the abdominal wall performed prior to abdominal cutaneous free flaps and coronary artery bypass grafting. Computed tomographic angiography (CTA) was undertaken on a patient with a rare case of Leriche's syndrome and a literature review of over 200 references on the anatomy, physiology and clinical uses of choke vessels in the abdominal wall was undertaken. The CTA demonstrated that in patients with Leriche's syndrome, there is a marked dilatation of all ITA-DIEA pathways and increased flow through choke vessels. If these changes can be surgically replicated in the form of a delay procedure for patients seeking to undergo autologous breast construction, this could improve the outcomes of abdominal cutaneous free flaps and coronary artery bypass grafting. We accordingly propose three surgical methods for augmenting blood flow to the abdominal wall: a) ligation of the DIEA; b) ligation of the distal ITA; and c) creation of an arterio-venous fistulae in the DIEA. Our review of the literature confirmed the viability of these propositions. The dilatation of choke vessels in response to increased haemodynamic stress may thus be utilised to enhance blood supply to tissues prior to transfer and can be achieved through simple and minimally invasive methods.

Changes in vascular anatomy following reconstructive surgery: an in vivo angiographic demonstration of the delay phenomenon and venous recanalization.

BACKGROUND: Although a surgical insult may substantially alter local vascular anatomy within tissues, studies that have clearly demonstrated these changes as being dynamic phenomena have not been widely reported. The current study aimed to explore the changes in abdominal wall vasculature after a surgical insult. METHODS: The arterial and venous anatomy of both the deep and superficial epigastric systems of the abdominal wall were explored with computed tomographic angiography (CTA) performed before and after bilateral removal of both bilateral deep and superficial inferior epigastric systems. RESULTS: Several unique anatomic findings were evident, with dilatation of both deep superior epigastric arteries and recanalization of the superficial inferior epigastric veins across the surgical scar, despite previous surgical division. CONCLUSION: The current study demonstrated that there are changes in both major and minor axial vessels and in both the arterial and venous systems after surgical insult. CTA may be of value in identifying these changes prior to surgery utilizing local vasculature.

Fasciocutaneous free flaps are more reliable than muscle free flaps in lower limb trauma reconstruction: experience in a single trauma center.

BACKGROUND: Muscle (M) and fasciocutaneous (FC) free flaps are frequently used options in the reconstruction of traumatic lower limb injuries. The use of one flap over another has remained the topic of controversy in the literature. With a large experience, we sought to evaluate key outcomes of M versus FC free flap reconstructions in lower limb trauma in a single trauma center. METHODS: A consecutive 7- year review of all free flap reconstructions for lower limb trauma performed at the Royal Melbourne Hospital was conducted. Patient data were prospectively entered into a unit database and retrospectively reviewed. RESULTS: One hundred three patients underwent 105 free flap reconstructions (M = 48 and FC = 57) in lower limb trauma. We experienced a rate of 2.9% total flap failures and 11.4% partial flap losses. Total flap failures represented 6.3% M and 0% FC flaps. The partial flap failures included 15.8% of M and 5.3% of FC flaps. Latissimus dorsi (40% of M group) and radial forearm free flaps (67% of FC group) were most commonly used in each group. There was a statistically significant difference between groups in rates of reoperation (M = 44% versus FC = 16%), postoperative infection (M = 38% versus FC = 12%), fracture nonunion (M = 40% versus FC = 21%), and donor site morbidity (M = 25% versus FC = 4%). Nonstatistically significant differences were encountered with higher rates of osteomyelitis (M = 14.6% versus FC = 10.5%), unplanned bone graft (M = 14.6 versus FC = 10.5%), and inability to bear full weight at 1 year (M = 30.2% versus FC = 17.0%) found in the M group. In our cohort, M flaps used for metal coverage resulted in higher rates of reoperation, postoperative infections, and flap loss than FC flaps (M = 61% versus FC = 25%, p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: Statistically higher complication rates in key reliability markers were found in the M free flap group. This study found FC free flaps to be more reliable for reconstruction of lower limb injuries in a major trauma center.

Mapping the vascular anatomy of free transplanted soft tissue flaps with computed tomographic angiography.

BACKGROUND: The use of advanced imaging technologies such as computed tomographic angiography (CTA) has opened the door to the analysis of microvascular anatomy not previously demonstrable with prior imaging techniques. While CTA has been used to evaluate the vascular anatomy of donor body regions in the planning of harvest of tissue for free flap transfer, the use of CTA to evaluate tissues after tissue transplantation has not been demonstrated. The current study aimed to explore whether vascular anatomy was able to highlight CTA within transferred flaps. METHODS: The arterial and venous anatomy of a transferred deep inferior epigastric artery (DIEA) perforator (DIEP) flap was explored postoperatively with the use of CTA. Intra-flap vasculature was mapped and recorded qualitatively. RESULTS: Postoperative CTA is able to highlight the vascular pedicle of a transferred free flap, highlight the course of individual perforators supplying the flap, and map the zones of lesser perfusion by the source pedicle. CONCLUSION: The current study has demonstrated that CTA may be of value in identifying vascular anatomy within transferred tissue, as a guide to evaluate flap perfusion and planning further surgery involving the flap.

The anatomy and variations of the internal thoracic (internal mammary) artery and implications in autologous breast reconstruction: clinical anatomical study and literature review.

BACKGROUND: The internal thoracic (IT) vessels (otherwise known as the thoracica interna or internal mammary vessels) are widely used as recipient vessels in autologous breast reconstruction. Despite this, normal and pathological variations in IT artery architecture have been described, and these have the potential to complicate dissection and the selection of suitable vessels. METHODS: A clinical anatomical study of 240 IT arteries (120 patients) and review of the literature was undertaken. Participants comprised 120 female patients undergoing preoperative imaging of the IT artery prior to autologous breast reconstruction, 42 with computed tomographic angiography (CTA) and 78 with ultrasound. RESULTS: There was complete concordance between surgical and radiological findings. An IT artery was present in 100% of cases, with a duplicate IT artery in two cases (1% overall). The position of the IT artery was between two IT veins most frequently (71.5% of cases), and was lateral to the vein(s) least frequently (6%). There were large IT perforators from the first and second intercostal spaces in 87 and 91% of cases, respectively, with the incidence of such perforators reducing in the lower spaces. The literature highlighted a range of cadaveric and clinical cases in which there was absence of a patent IT artery, variant course or size, and variant relationship to the IT vein. CONCLUSION: A range of congenital, pathological and iatrogenic variants in IT artery anatomy have the potential to limit the use of the IT artery in autologous breast reconstruction. Preoperative imaging with ultrasound or CTA may provide a clear and accurate method of identifying these anatomical variations pre-operatively.

Images in plastic surgery: digital thermographic photography ("thermal imaging") for preoperative perforator mapping.

Preoperative imaging to identify the location of individual perforators has been shown to improve operative outcomes, and while computed tomographic angiography (CTA) and magnetic resonance angiography are currently the most widely used modalities, these have substantial limitations. Such limitations include the need for intravenous access, the need for iodinated contrast media, radiation exposure with CTA, and long scanning times with magnetic resonance angiography. Complications from the use of contrast media are also noteworthy, and can include anaphylactoid reactions and renal toxicity. In a move to avoid these problems, we have recently introduced a technique that is readily available and easy to implement for preoperative imaging, and may show an accuracy that matches the more advanced imaging modalities. Thermal imaging is a readily performed technique, and can be undertaken by the reconstructive surgeon themselves at the initial consultation, enabling prompt operative planning, and avoiding the need for delays in imaging, confusion in the interpretation of a radiologist report, and the need for an intermediary radiologist altogether. In our experience thus far, the technique matches the accuracy for location of CTA, and a larger clinical trial of the technique is underway.

Images in plastic surgery: the anatomy of macrovascular arteriovenous shunts and implications for abdominal wall free flaps.

With the increasing use of preoperative imaging of the abdominal vasculature prior to free flaps based on the abdominal wall, the identification of a previously undescribed anatomic structure has, that of large-vessel (macroscopic) arteriovenous communications, has emerged. These macrovascular arteriovenous shunts are observed in most patients, and provide a communication between the arterial perforators of the deep inferior epigastric artery and the superficial inferior epigastric vein. These communications provide vascular shunting occurring prior to capillary filling and have potentially profound clinical implications and therapeutic possibilities in a range of medical and surgical conditions. Although these have been demonstrated previously on computed tomographic angiography imaging, their macroscopic and microscopic anatomy has not been described. We present images in vivo, ex vivo, and histologically to highlight their anatomic features.

The importance of the superficial venous anatomy of the abdominal wall in planning a superficial inferior epigastric artery (SIEA) flap: case report and clinical study.

The importance of the venous drainage of the anterior abdominal wall to free tissue transfer in deep inferior epigastric artery perforator flap surgery has been highlighted in several recent publications in this journal, however the same attention has not been given to superficial inferior epigastric artery (SIEA) flaps, in which the flap necessarily relies on the superficial venous drainage. We describe a unique case, in which the presence of two superficial inferior epigastric veins (SIEVs) draining into separate venous trunks was identified. The use of only one trunk led to a well-demarcated zone of venous congestion. A clinical study was also conducted, assessing 200 hemiabdominal walls with preoperative computed tomographic angiography imaging. The presence of more than a single major SIEV trunk was present in 80 hemiabdominal walls (40% of overall sides). There was considerable variability in the source of drainage of the SIEV, draining variably into the deep inferior epigastric vein, the great saphenous vein, the saphenous bulb, a common trunk with the superficial circumflex iliac vein or a common trunk with a second branch of the SIEV. These findings highlight the considerable variation in the number of SIEV trunks as well as their source of regional drainage, and show the importance of consideration of such variation.

Improving the utility and reliability of the deep circumflex iliac artery perforator flap: the use of preoperative planning with CT angiography.

BACKGROUND: The deep circumflex iliac artery (DCIA) is rarely used as a perforator flap, despite a clear clinical need for thin osteocutaneous flaps, particularly in head and neck reconstruction. The poor adoption of such a flap is largely due to a poor understanding of the perforators of the DCIA, despite recent publications demonstrating suitable vascular anatomy of the DCIA perforators, particularly evident with the use of preoperative computed tomographic angiography (CTA). We have applied this method of peroperative imaging to successfully select those patients suitable for the DCIA perforator flap and use it clinically. METHODS: We present a case series of patients who underwent DCIA perforator flap reconstruction following preoperative planning with CTA. Imaging findings, clinical course, and outcomes are presented. RESULTS: Six out of seven patients planned for DCIA perforator flap reconstruction underwent a successful DCIA perforator flap, with imaging findings confirmed at operation, and without any flap loss, hernia, or other significant flap-related morbidities. Because of abberent anatomy and change in defect following excision of pathology, one patient was converted to a free fibular flap. CONCLUSION: With preoperative CTA planning, the DCIA perforator flap is a versatile and feasible flap for reconstruction of the mandible and extremities.

Predictors of blood transfusion in deep inferior epigastric artery perforator flap breast reconstruction.

Perioperative blood loss during and following breast reconstruction surgery can have substantial impact on free flap survival and patient morbidity. Transfusion rates of up to 95% have been reported following transverse rectus abdominis myocutaneous flap breast reconstruction, with blood loss described as significant in most cases. However, there has been little reported of such requirements in patients undergoing deep inferior epigastric perforator (DIEP) flap breast reconstruction. We present the transfusion requirements of 152 consecutive patients who underwent DIEP flap breast reconstruction, with a view to quantifying transfusion requirements and identifying risk factors for such loss. In this cohort, 80.3% of patients required blood transfusion, with a mean volume of 3.9 U per patient. There was a statistically significant correlation for increased transfusion requirement in patients with preoperative anemia ( P < 0.001) and in bilateral cases ( P < 0.001), but not for cases of immediate reconstruction ( P = 0.72). Although blood loss in breast reconstructive surgery is rarely large enough to be life-threatening, relative anemia does have significant effect on flap survival and patient morbidity. With risk factors for increased transfusion requirements identified in the current study, high-risk patients can be predicted preoperatively.

Tips on Raising Reliable Local Perforator Flaps.

From early on in the development of plastic surgery, it was quickly realized that utilizing locally adjacent tissue, or "matching like with like," yielded superior aesthetic reconstructions to those in which the tissue was derived from a distant location. In many cases, the use of a local perforator flap is a simpler procedure with less patient morbidity and a quicker recovery from surgery. The difficulty with local perforator flaps has been locating the supplying perforators, ensuring that the flap has a robust and reliable blood supply, and that sufficient tissue is able to be transferred. The recent reappraisal of our understanding of the blood supply of the integument has allowed, for the first time, the capacity to accurately and inexpensively, without the need for "high tech equipment," locate perforators, as they emerge from the deep fascia into the overlying integument, and through a better understanding of the interconnecting anastomotic vessels between perforators reliably predict how much tissue can be safely raised on a single perforator, before surgery. Further, through the use of strategic "delay," it is possible to manipulate the interconnecting vessels between the selected perforator and its surrounding neighbors to design a flap of tissue of any dimension, composed of whatever tissue we require, and safely transfer that tissue locally, or if required, distantly, as a free flap. This article will highlight these advances, explain their relevance in raising reliable local perforator flaps, and will, where possible, call attention to any pearls and pitfalls, and how to avoid complications.