Retalho supraclavicular para reconstrução oncológica em cabeça e pescoço: Uma série de 62 casos / Supraclavicular flap for head and neck oncological reconstruction: A series of 62 cases

Introdução: A reconstrução oncológica de defeitos extensos em cabeça e pescoço impõe ao cirurgião plástico a difícil decisão entre o uso de retalhos livres e retalhos pediculados. O retalho supraclavicular é um dos principais exemplos de retalho pediculado, sendo versátil, com espessura delgada e cor semelhante à região a ser reconstruída. Método: Um estudo retrospectivo foi realizado através da coleta de dados de prontuário de pacientes internados no Instituto do Câncer do Estado de São Paulo, entre dezembro de 2010 e março de 2020. Resultados: Dentre os 62 pacientes reconstruídos com retalho supraclavicular, 37 eram do sexo masculino e 25 do sexo feminino. Cinquenta e oito pacientes (93,5%) possuíam alguma comorbidade associada. Ao todo, 27 complicações relacionadas ao retalho (43,5%) foram registradas, sendo 5 necroses totais (8%). Conclusão: O retalho supraclavicular possui importante papel nas reconstruções oncológicas de cabeça e pescoço e deve ser considerado como opção em pacientes maus candidatos a retalhos microcirúrgicos.

Introduction: The oncological reconstruction of extensive defects in the head and neck requires the plastic surgeon to make a difficult decision between the use of free flaps and pedicled flaps. The supraclavicular flap is one of the main examples of a pedicled flap, being versatile, with a thin thickness and similar color to the region to be reconstructed. Method: A retrospective study was carried out by collecting data from medical records of patients admitted to the Cancer Institute of the State of São Paulo between December 2010 and March 2020. Results: Among the 62 patients reconstructed with a supraclavicular flap, 37 were male and 25 female. Fifty-eight patients (93.5%) had some associated comorbidity. In total, 27 complications related to the flap (43.5%) were recorded, 5 of which were total necrosis (8%). Conclusion: The supraclavicular flap plays an important role in head and neck oncological reconstructions and should be considered as an option in patients who are poor candidates for microsurgical flaps.

Retalho fasciocutâneo medial da coxa em V-Y bilateral na reconstrução perineal por hidradenite supurativa: Relato de caso / Bilateral V-Y medial fasciocutaneous thigh flap in perineal reconstruction for hidradenitis suppurativa: Case report

Introdução: A hidradenite supurativa (HS) é uma doença inflamatória crônica que afeta preferencialmente a pele intertriginosa e está associada a numerosas comorbidades sistêmicas. A área perineal é a segunda área mais comumente afetada depois da axila. A excisão ampla é o tratamento que tem maior probabilidade de atingir melhores resultados com menor risco de recorrência. Com a excisão cirúrgica extensa, o fechamento com retalho oferece maior probabilidade de tratamento definitivo. Alguns retalhos são descritos para reconstruir defeitos da região perineal após câncer, porém poucos deles são estudados no tratamento da HS. Relato de Caso: Mulher de 43 anos, com HS perineal, submetida a ressecção das lesões e reconstrução com retalho fasciocutâneo medial da coxa em V-Y bilateral como tratamento da doença. O retalho permitiu o fechamento completo do períneo total sem complicações graves. Conclusão: Este caso mostra que é útil e prático utilizar o retalho fasciocutâneo medial da coxa em V-Y para reconstrução perineal após ressecções amplas de pele, glândulas apócrinas e folículos pilosos no tratamento da HS, oferecendo boa cobertura de pele, e tecido celular subcutâneo com suprimento vascular confiável, que evita sequelas associadas a sacrifício de músculos e alcança dimensões maiores do que outros retalhos, podendo ser considerado em casos selecionados como uma alternativa no tratamento cirúrgico da HS perineal.

Introduction: Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a chronic inflammatory disease that preferentially affects the intertriginous skin and is associated with numerous systemic comorbidities. The perineal area is the second most commonly affected area after the armpit. Wide excision is the treatment most likely to achieve better results with a lower risk of recurrence. With extensive surgical excision, flap closure offers a greater likelihood of definitive treatment. Some flaps have been described to reconstruct defects in the perineal region after cancer, but few have been studied in treating HS. Case Report: A 43-year-old woman with perineal HS underwent resection of the lesions and reconstruction with a bilateral V-Y medial thigh fasciocutaneous flap to treat the disease. The flap allowed complete closure of the total perineum without serious complications. Conclusion: This case shows that it is useful and practical to use the V-Y medial thigh fasciocutaneous flap for perineal reconstruction after wide resections of skin, apocrine glands, and hair follicles in the treatment of HS, offering good skin coverage and subcutaneous cellular tissue with supply reliable vascular flap, which avoids sequelae associated with muscle sacrifice and reaches larger dimensions than other flaps, and can be considered in selected cases as an alternative in the surgical treatment of perineal HS.

Standardization of reconstructions with flaps after Fournier's gangrene / Padronização das reconstruções com retalhos após gangrena de Fournier

Introduction: Fournier's gangrene is characterized by tissue necrosis, which requires treatment employing debridement and antibiotics with wounds of varying sizes. The objective is to standardize the surgical techniques of reconstructions with flaps used to treat wounds after Fournier's gangrene. Method: A study was conducted by searching the PubMed/Medline, SciELO, and LILACS databases. Results: In wounds with skin loss of 25% to 50%, a local advancement cutaneous flap or a pudendal flap from the thigh was used; in wounds, greater than 50%, a superomedial thigh flap or myocutaneous flap from the gracilis muscle was used, with the aim of to enable proper reconstruction. Conclusion: Advancement and pudendal thigh flaps were used for wounds with up to 50% loss of scrotal skin substance, while the myocutaneous gracilis flap and supero-medial flap of the thigh were indicated for wounds with more than 50% of the total scrotal surface affected, after Fournier gangrene.

Introdução: Gangrena de Fournier é caracterizada por necrose tecidual, que necessita de tratamento por meio de desbridamento e antibióticos, com feridas de dimensões variadas. O objetivo é padronizar as técnicas cirúrgicas de reconstruções com retalhos utilizadas no tratamento das feridas após gangrena de Fournier. Método: Realizou-se estudo por meio da busca nas bases de dados PubMed/Medline, SciELO e LILACS. Resultados: Nas feridas com perdas cutâneas de 25% a 50%, foram utilizados retalho cutâneo local de avanço ou retalho pudendo da coxa, nas maiores de 50% foram necessárias as confecções do retalho superomedial da coxa ou retalho miocutâneo do músculo grácil, com intuito de possibilitar a reconstrução adequada. Conclusão: Os retalhos de avanço e pudendo da coxa foram utilizados para feridas com perda de substância cutânea escrotal de até 50%, enquanto os retalhos miocutâneo de músculo grácil e superomedial da coxa foram indicados para as feridas com mais de 50% da superfície escrotal total acometida, após gangrena de Fournier.

Application of folded transverse superficial epigastric artery perforator flap for large penetrating defect after buccal carcinoma resection / 中国修复重建外科杂志

OBJECTIVE@#To explore the effectiveness of folded transverse superficial epigastric artery perforator flap in repairing the large penetrating defect after buccal carcinoma resection.@*METHODS@#Between January 2019 and June 2021, 12 patients with buccal squamous cell carcinoma were treated. There were 6 males and 6 females with an average of 66.9 years (range, 53-79 years). The pathological stage was T3a-T4b, and the preoperative mouth opening was (3.08±0.46) cm. The disease duration ranged from 6 to 24 months, with an average of 15 months. After buccal carcinoma radical resection and neck lymph node dissection, the penetrating defects in size of 8 cm×6 cm to 16 cm×8 cm and in depth of 0.5-1.5 cm were remained. The transverse superficial epigastric artery perforator flap in size of 8 cm×6 cm to 14 cm×8 cm were harvested and folded to repair the penetrating defects. The donor site was sutured directly.@*RESULTS@#All 12 skin flaps survived after operation, and the wounds healed by first intention. No internal or external fistula complications occurred. All incisions at the recipient site healed by first intention. All patients were followed up 12-18 months (mean, 14 months). There was no obvious abnormality in the color and texture of the flap, the oral and facial appearances were symmetrical, and there was no obvious swelling in the cheek. At last follow-up, the patient's mouth opening was (2.89±0.33) cm, which was not significantly different from that before operation ( t=1.879, P=0.087). The subjective satisfaction scores of 12 patients were 6-8 points, with an average of 7.3 points. Significant scars remained at the donor site but concealed in location.@*CONCLUSION@#The folded transverse superficial epigastric artery perforator flap can be used as a surgical method for repairing large penetrating defects after the buccal carcinoma resection, with a good recovery of facial appearance and oral function.

Effectiveness of temporal island flap pedicled with perforating branch of zygomatic orbital artery to repair the defects after periocular malignant tumor resection / 中国修复重建外科杂志

OBJECTIVE@#To summarize the effectiveness of the temporal island flap pedicled with the perforating branch of zygomatic orbital artery for repairing defects after periocular malignant tumor resection.@*METHODS@#Between January 2015 and December 2020, 15 patients with periocular malignant tumors were treated. There were 5 males and 10 females with an average age of 62 years (range, 40-75 years). There were 12 cases of basal cell carcinoma and 3 cases of squamous carcinoma. The disease duration ranged from 5 months to 10 years (median, 2 years). The size of tumors ranged from 1.0 cm×0.8 cm to 2.5 cm×1.5 cm, without tarsal plate invasion. After extensive resection of the tumors, the left defects in size of 2.0 cm×1.5 cm to 3.5 cm×2.0 cm were repaired with the temporal island flap pedicled with the perforating branch of zygomatic orbital artery via subcutaneous tunnel. The size of the flaps ranged from 3.0 cm×1.5 cm to 5.0 cm×2.0 cm. The donor sites were separated subcutaneously and sutured directly.@*RESULTS@#All flaps survived after operation and the wounds healed by first intention. The incisions at donor sites healed by first intention. All patients were followed up 6-24 months (median, 11 months). The flaps were not obviously bloated, the texture and color were basically the same as the surrounding normal skin, and the scars at recipient sites were not obviously. There was no complication such as ptosis, ectropion, or incomplete closure of the eyelids and recurrence of tumor during follow-up.@*CONCLUSION@#The temporal island flap pedicled with the perforating branch of zygomatic orbital artery can repair the defects after periorbital malignant tumors resection and has the advantages of reliable blood supply, flexible design, and good morphology and function.

Effects of thigh perforator flap on repair of oral and maxillofacial head and neck defects / 中华医学美学美容杂志

Objective:To investigate the clinical experience of different types of femoral perforator flaps in the reconstruction of oral and maxillofacial head and neck defects.Methods:From January 2018 to January 2021, 573 patients with oral and maxillofacial head and neck defects reconstructed by femoral perforator flap were collected in the Department of Maxillofacial Oncology, the Third Affiliated Hospital of Air Force Military Medical University (age range of 21-76 years, with a male to female ratio of 1.23∶1). According to the type of perforator flap, the patients were divided into ALT group, AMT group, TFL flap group and free muscle flap group. The incidence of postoperative complications, wound healing time and drainage volume in femoral area were compared among the 4 groups.Results:The ALT flap was used in 527 cases: 22 flaps had vascular crisis, 14 flaps had infection, 8 flaps had necrosis, 519 flaps survived; the mean healing time of the wound was (14.50±3.19) days, and the mean drainage volume was (49.9±21.3) ml. 28 cases were repaired with AMT flap: 2 flaps had vascular crisis and 1 had infection. All the flaps survived; the mean healing time of the wound was (14.18±2.75) days, and the mean drainage volume was (50.3±23.0) ml. 11 cases were repaired by TFL flap: 1 flap had vascular crisis and 1 had infection. All the flaps survived. The mean healing time of the wound was (14.09±2.66) days, and the mean drainage volume was (54.1±25.0) ml. 7 cases were repaired by free muscle flap survived without vascular crisis, infection and other postoperative complications; the mean healing time of the wound was 14.14±1.86, and the mean postoperative drainage volume was (49.9±21.1) ml. There was no significant difference in complication rate (flap necrosis, vascular crisis, infection, etc.) and repair effect among 573 patients with different flap types. The postoperative follow-up was conducted for 6-24 months, and the donor area was smooth and good in appearance, without obvious scar or functional influence. The repair effect of the affected area was satisfactory.Conclusions:Although there is a certain proportion of perforator vessel variation in the femoral perforator flap, the flap can be designed freely according to different types of variation. The thigh perforator flap has an essential application value in the repair of oral and maxillofacial head and neck defects.

3D reconstruction assisted preoperative optimal design of anterolateral abdomen cross-region free perforator flap for repair of soft tissue defects in limbs / 中华显微外科杂志

Objective:To investigate the clinical effect of a 3D reconstruction assisted preoperative optimal design of anterolateral abdomen cross-region free perforator flaps for repair of soft tissue defects of limbs.Methods:Twenty patients who were treated for soft tissue defects of hand, forearm, foot and ankle in the Department of Hand Surgery, the Sixth Hospital of Ningbo from October 2017 to January 2020 were included in this study. Among the patients,17 had soft tissue defects in hand and forearm and 3 with composite tissue defects including ankle and soft tissue defect of foot. The sizes of soft tissue defects in limbs ranged from 6 cm × 8 cm - 36 cm × 18 cm. Twenty free cross-area perforator flaps were optimal designed with CTA and 3D assisted reconstruction before surgery. Following combinations of flaps were designed: (1) Free perforator flap with inferior abdominal artery and superior abdominal artery; (2) Free perforator flap with superficial iliac circumflex artery and deep iliac circumflex artery; (3) Free perforator flap with superficial iliac circumflex artery and inferior abdominal wall perforator artery; (4) Free perforator flap with perforators of superficial iliac circumflex artery plus superficial abdominal artery; (5) Free perforator flap with perforating artery of lower abdominal wall and superficial artery of abdominal wall. The overall nutritional area of a combined flap were 272.3 cm 2± 12.5 cm 2, 107.4 cm 2± 9.3 cm 2, 193.6 cm 2± 24.2 cm 2, 155.2 cm 2± 20.1 cm 2 and 203.7 cm 2± 16.3 cm 2, respectively. All the donor sites were sutured directly in one stage. The appearance, texture, blood supply, colour, joint movement of affected limbs, recovery and function of donor sites were observed through postoperative follow-up visits at the outpatient clinic. Results:Among the 20 anterolateral transventral perforator flaps, 18 flaps survived successfully; One had partial necrosis after surgery, and healed after dressing change. Subcutaneous haematoma occurred in 1 flap, and survived after drainage. In this study, there was no postoperative infection of flap. A total of 19 flaps healed in one stage, except 1 that had a delayed healing and the flap wound was closed after dressing change for 1 week. According to Disability of Arm, Shouder and Hand (DASH) questionnaire evaluation, which is widely used in the world to evaluate the therapeutic effect after limb injury, combined with the 6-12 months of follow-up, the functional recovery of 17 patients with upper limbs iniury was 7 in excellent, 9 in good and 1 in poor. The overall excellent and good rate achieved 94.1%. All the 3 patients with foot injury recovered well, and the walking and jumping were not significantly affected. The results were all excellent according to the Maryland Foot Function Scoring. Sensation of flaps was evaluated according to the British Sensory Function Evaluation, it showed: 3 in S 2, 15 in S 3 and 2 in S 3+. All 20 flaps had good blood supply, in soft texture, good colour, feeling, thickness and movement. The donor sites all healed well. Conclusion:Combined with an optimal preoperative design, the perforator flap of anterior lateral wall cross-region can obtain a satisfactory clinical efficacy in repair of large area soft tissue defects. It is a feasible treatment method.

Free perforator flap of radial collateral artery on reconstruction of first web contracture after hand injury / 中华显微外科杂志

Objective:To summarise the effect of free perforator flap of radial collateral artery on reconstruction of first web contracture after hand injury.Methods:Retrospective analysis was conducted based on the clinical data of patients with first web contracture after hand injury in the Department of Hand and Foot Surgery and Rehabilitation, Guangdong Work Injury Rehabilitation Hospital from November 2019 to June 2022. Ten patients, 8 males and 2 females aged between 27 and 51 years old with an average of 40.5 years old were included. There were 6 left hands and 4 right hands. Width and the included angle of first web were measured before surgery. Four hands were classified as severe first web contracture, and the rest of 6 hands had moderate first web contracture. After release scars of the first web, the areas of wound were 5.5 cm × 2.0 cm - 10.5 cm × 3.0 cm. The flaps sized were 6.0 cm×2.5 cm - 11.0 cm × 3.5 cm. All of flaps carried the posterior cutaneous nerve of forearm. Donor sites were closed directly. All patients were included in postoperative follow-up regularly through outpatient clinic or via WeChat reviews. The colour, texture, process in change of the transferred flaps, donor and recipient sites healing and complications were observed.Results:All 10 flaps survived and the wound healed by first intention. The patients received 7 to 15 months (10.5 months in average) of postoperative follow-up. The flaps were not bulky, texture and colour were satisfactory and without pigmentation. Protective sensations restored in 6 patients. At the last follow-up, average included angle of the first webs was 47.14°±1.68°, in comparison with 35.43°±3.60° before surgery. The average width of first webs was 5.34 cm±0.52 cm, in comparison with 3.17 cm±0.75 cm before surgery, the differences were statistically significant ( P<0.01). Eight hands were rated excellent, and 2 were good. There were only linear scars left at the donor sites, without sign of radial nerve injury. Conclusion:The free perforator flap of radial collateral artery is a safe and effective method for repair of first web contracture after hand injury.

Apply ultra-thin lobulated anterolateral thigh perforator flap in repairing of large soft tissue defect in foot: a report of 8 cases / 中华显微外科杂志

Objective:Exploring the clinical efficacy of using ultra-thin lobulated anterolateral thigh perforator flap(ALTPF) with retrograde separation of perforating vessels from the superficial and deep junction layer of the superficial fascia to repair large soft tissue defects in the foot.Methods:From August 2021 to November 2022, 8 patients (5 males and 3 females) were admitted to the Second Department of Hand and Foot Surgery, the Affiliated Central Hospital of Dalian University of Technology. The patients were 28 to 52 years old in age. The soft tissue defects were located in dorsal and plantar foot. At the plantar foot, the wound involved the weight-bearing area with explosion of bone, tendon or internal fixtures. The area of soft tissue defects was 6.0 cm × 5.0 cm - 16.0 cm × 8.0 cm, and the sizes of ALTPF were 8.0 cm ×5.5 cm - 18.0 cm × 8.5 cm. Preoperative high frequency CUD combined with CTA angiography were employed to locate the 2 flap perforator vessels. By keeping the perforator vessels at center and according to the soft tissue defect area and the wound shape, an ALTPF with a proper size and shape was designed in anterolateral thigh. The perforator were separated in the boundary layer between superficial and deep fascia, where it helped to obviously thin the flap. After the flap was harvested, it was further lobulated between the 2 perforators into 2 lobes after having confirmed the effective blood supply. Finally the lobulated ALTPF was transferred to covered the defect in foot. Cautions should be taken to ensure that the flap covered the weight-bearing area of foot. All the donor sites were directly sutured. Postoperative follow-up was conducted to observe the survival of flaps and the functional recovery of the reconstructed site, also to evaluate the clinical effect. Postoperative follow-up included outpatient visits and reviews over WeChat or telephone. Recovery of the ankle motor function was evaluated according to the American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Societ (AOFAS) ankle-hind foot score scale.Results:All 8 ALTPF survived. Over 6 to 18 months (10.8 months in average) of follow-up, the transferred flaps had good blood supply, soft in texture, with good elasticity and thin in appearance. Appearance and function of donor sites recovered well, except 1 patient who had mild scar hyperplasia. The plantar flap had good abrasion resistance. No flap damage, bleeding or granulation tissue hyperplasia occurred when walking. The mean score of AOFAS ankle-hind foot score achieved 95.6.Conclusion:The application of ultra-thin lobulated ALTPF with retrograde separation of perforating vessels from the superficial fascia at the junction layer for repairing large soft tissue defects in the foot has good clinical efficacy.

Repair of scalp defect with anterolateral thigh perforator flap after revascularisation of moyamoya disease: a report of 7 cases / 中华显微外科杂志

Objective:To investigate the clinical effect of free anterolateral thigh perforator flap(ALTPF) in reconstruction of temporal scalp defect after blood circulation reconstruction surgery for moyamoya disease.Methods:From May 2020 to July 2022, 7 patients with scalp defect after revascularisation of moyamoya disease were treated in Department of Hand and Foot Microsurgery, Henan Provincial People’s Hospital (People’s Hospital of Zhengzhou University). The patients were 4 males and 3 females, aged 33-59 years old, at 43 years old in average. There were 5 defects in left tempus and 2 in right tempus. The sizes of scalp defect were 4.5 cm × 5.5 cm-7.5 cm × 9.5 cm. Debridement and VSD management were primarily performed. After wounds were stabilised, ultrasound location of perforator vessels of ALTPFs was performed. Having confirmed that the perforator vessels were suitable for the surgical requirements, flap transfers were then performed. The descending branch of the lateral femoral circumflex artery was end-to-side anastomosed with the superficial temporal artery, and the descending branch of the lateral femoral circumflex vein was end-to-end anastomosed with the superficial temporal vein. Postoperative follow-up was conducted through outpatient clinic visits, telephone and WeChat reviews. Appearance, texture of ALTPFs and the flap donor sites were observed in follow-ups. Comparisons of the changes of nervous system before and after surgery were made. Cognitive function of the patients was assessed with the Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE), together with the Activities of Daily Living (ADL) .Results:All 7 flaps survived. One flap had vascular compromise 6 hours after surgery, and was rectified after surgical intervention. All the patients were included in the postoperative follow-up for 7-33 (average 19) months. All flaps had good appearance with soft texture. There was no obvious difference in colour comparing with the skin around the recipient region. The donor sites healed well without hypertrophic scar. Examinations of nervous system of the patients were found the same as that before surgery. Using Manual Muscle Testing (MMT), the average limb muscle strength of the patients was 4 before surgery and 4 after surgery, without change; Using the Ashworth assessment scale, the average preoperative and postoperative limb muscle tension in this group of patients was 1, without change; The Berg balance scale was used to evaluate the patient's balance function, with an average score of 42 before surgery and 42 after surgery, without any changes; There was no change in limb sensation before and after surgery; Using the MMSE, the average preoperative score and postoperative score of this group of patients were 25 points, without any change. Using the modified Barthel index scoring standard, the average preoperative score for this group of patients was 75 points, and the average postoperative score was 79 points, and the ADL of the patient had improved to various levels.Conclusion:Reconstruction of scalp defect with free ALTPF after revascularisation of moyamoya disease has obvious advantages, such as it closes the wound quickly, prevents infection and achieves a good appearance. This surgical procedure can produce a good clinical effect.

Novel application and evaluation of superficial circumflex iliac artery perforator flap / 中华显微外科杂志

Objective:Verstaile free superficial circumflex iliac artery perforator flap(SCIAPF) were adopted for various reconstructive scenarios, and its clinical effect and value was evaluated.Methods:Retrospective analysis was performed on 42 patients with tissue defects admitted in the Department of Orthopeadic of the Second Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University from January 2015 to May 2019. Nine patients had injury in the foot, 8 in ankle, 8 in calf, 7 in forearm, 9 in hand, and 1 in the mouth. All of the defects were repaired by SCIAPF, including 28 single soft tissue defect wounds, 8 multiple soft tissue defect, and 6 composite defects. The size of soft tissue defect were 1.2 cm×1.8 cm-14.0 cm×20.8 cm. The size of flaps were 1.5 cm×2.0 cm-15.3 cm×22.3 cm. The patients entered follow up by outpatient clinic visit and telephone reviews to observe the survival of the flaps, functional recovery and complications.Results:In this series, there were 28 flaps, including 18 pedicled with superficia branch of superficial circumflex iliac artery, 2 pedicled with deep branch of superficial circumflex iliac artery, and 8 pedicled with 2 branches. Six were chimeric flaps. Among them, 4 flaps were iliac bone flaps with superficial branch of superficial circumflex iliac artery flaps, and 2 were superficial iliac circumflex artery flap with sartorius muscle flap. Eight cases were resurfaced with lobulated SCIAPF. Arterial anastomoses: end-to-side in 35 arteries and end-to-end in 7 arteries. Venous anastomosis: end-to-end in 27 veins and end-to-side in 15 veins. Venous return through superficial iliac circumflex vein in 25 flaps, through venae comitantes in 12 flaps and through both in 5 flaps. All flap donor sites were sutured directly. All flaps survived uneventfully except for one that compromised with end-to-side anastomotic dehiscence and bleeding, and survived after re-anastomosis. All flaps and donor sites healed primarily. During the follow-up of 6-24(mean, 11.5) months, the pliable flaps were ruddy in colour and soft in texture, without obvious bloatness and pigmentation. The donor site healed well with linear scars in 35 cases and mild scar hyperplasia in 7 cases. The donor hip function were normal. Three patients suffered a numbness of the thigh caused by intraoperative injury lateral femoral cutaneous nerve and it disappeared completely after 3 months.Conclusion:New applications of lobulated or chimeric SCIAPF, based on the SCIA vasculature or its branches, can meet most of the clinical repair requirement.

Repair of finger pulp defect with free thenar perforator flap / 中华显微外科杂志

Objective:To investigate the effect of free thenar perforator flap on repair of finger pulp defect.Methods:From September 2019 to November 2021, 79 cases of finger injuries complicated with defects in the pulp of fingers received free thenar perforator flap transfer surgery for reconstruction of finger pulps in the Department of Hand and Foot Surgery, Taizhou Hospital, Zhejiang Province. The patients were 51 males and 28 females, aged from 17 to 52(37.5±5.2) years old. There were 34 finger-pulp defects of index fingers, 15 of middle fingers, 26 of ring fingers and 4 of little fingers. All patients were treated with free thenar perforator flaps sized 2.0 cm×2.5 cm-3.0 cm×3.5 cm. All thenar perforator flaps were pedicled with the perforator artery and subcutaneous superficial vein in the thenar region, and the vessels were anastomosed with the proper palmar digital artery and dorsal digital vein, respectively. At the same time, subcutaneous nerve and proper palmar digital nerve were sutured to reconstruct the sensation of flaps. During the operation, the dominant perforating branch of thenar was found being originated from the superficial palmar branch of radial artery in 27 cases, from the superficial palmar arch in 21 cases, from the perforating branch of metacarpophalangeal proper artery of thumb in 11 cases, from the radial artery in 10 cases and from the main artery of thumb in 10 cases. The origins of nerves within the flaps were found from the superficial branch of radial nerve(24 cases), the terminal branch of lateral cutaneous nerve of forearm(22 cases) and the palmar branch of median nerve(33 cases). The operation time was (96.7±10.7) minutes. The donor site for the flap was closed directly without skin grafting. Most of the follow-up were conducted through the visit of outpatient clinic and the patients from other regions were reviewed via telephone or WeChat.Results:All perforator flaps survived completely and the flap donor sites healed smoothly. Follow-up lasted for (20.5±3.8) months. The reconstructed finger pulp was not bulky and the texture was satisfactory. TPD of the flaps was (5.6±0.9) mm. Only a linear scar left in the flap donor sites without significant affect on thenar function.Conclusion:The vascular anatomy of thenar perforator flap is constant, which helps to regain sensations of the flap. The texture and thickness of the flap are similar to those of the finger. It is ideal for reconstruction of defect of finger pulp.

Replantation of severed midfoot with pedicled perforator flap around ankle for repair traumatic defect: Report of 4 cases / 中华显微外科杂志

Objective:To discuss the pedicled perforator flap around ankle in complicated replantation of severed traumatic midfoot.Methods:From May 2017 to December 2020, a total of 4 patients with severed midfoot combined with severely traumatic soft tissue defects were treated in the Department of Micro-orthopaedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Luohe Medical Collage. The patients were all males and aged from 22 to 53 (mean, 44) years old. Two patients had left foot injured and 2 in right foot. Causes of injuries: One patient was injured by strangulation of a corn harvester belt, and 3 were crushed by a heavy steel bar. Three patients had the severed sites at the level of intertarsal joint and 1 at the base of metatarsus. The time from injury to admission was 2.0-5.0(mean, 3.5) hours. The severed feet were replanted by anterograde method. Pedicled perforator flaps around ankle were used to repair the soft tissue defects of feet in emergency surgery or post first-stage surgery. The sizes of the flaps were 7.5 cm×8.0 cm-9.0 cm×19.0 cm. Scheduled follow-ups were arranged at outpatient clinic or by online reviews. Appearance, texture, colour, blood supply and sensory-motor function of the replanted feet and flaps were observed. The function of the foot and ankle was evaluated according to the American Orthopaedic Foot Ankle Association (AOFAS).Results:All 4 patients engaged follow-ups lasted for 13-36(mean, 19.5) months. Three replantations survived after surgery. In the other case, a chronic necrosis of the broken foot was caused by skin necrosis, wound infection, and vascular embolism. And then the necrotic forefoot was released, and the wound was later repaired with a flap based medial supramalleolar branches. A total of 5 flaps in 4 patients survived. All flaps were in good appearance with good texture and colour. All flaps healed primarily, and all skin grafts survived. All of the 4 patients could walked without assistance. Sensation restored to S 3. The patient with a failed replantation had left with a mild claudication. According to AOFAS, 2 patients were in excellent, 1 in good and 1 in fair at the last follow-up. Conclusion:Replantation of severed midfoot with an early application of pedicled perforator flap around ankle for reconstruction of severely traumatic defect is an effective and feasible treatment strategy.

Clinical efficacy of free deep inferior epigastric artery perforator flap in repair of large wounds in upper limb / 中华显微外科杂志

Objective:To summarise the clinical efficacy of free deep inferior epigastric artery perforator flap (DIEPF) in repairing large wounds in upper limb.Methods:From June 2016 to March 2022, free DIEPF repair surgery were performed for 9 cases with large defects in elbow, forearm and wrist in the Department of Hand Surgery, Xuzhou Renci Hospital. The patients were 3 males and 6 females at 36-65(average 50) years old. The sizes of defect ranged from 6.0 cm×7.0 cm to 25.0 cm×33.0 cm. Seven defects combined with radius-ulnar fracture, 4 with wrist fracture, 4 with metacarpal fracture and 1 with humerus fracture. All defects had various degrees of injuries of tendon, blood vessel and nerve. A total of 10 flaps were harvested, and the size of flaps were 7.0 cm×8.0 cm-12.0 cm×35.0 cm. Vessels in 7 flaps of 6 patients were anastomosed with unilateral vascular pedicles and 3 with bilateral vascular pedicles. End-to-end arterial anastomosis was performed on 1 flap, and the other 9 flaps of 8 patients had end-to-side arterial anastomoses. End-to-end vein anastomoses were performed on all flaps. Umbilical reconstruction was performed at the abdominal donor site for 3 patients, and all donor site wounds were closed in stage I surgery. Scheduled outpatient and WeChat follow-up were made after surgery.Results:Nine flaps in 8 patients survived successfully. Partial skin necrosis occurred in 1 flap and repaired by skin grafting. Follow-up lasted for 6 to 60 months(12 months in average). At the last follow-up, the colour of the flaps was found being similar to the surrounding skin with mildly bloated and soft in texture. Sensation of the flaps recovered to S 2 in 5 patients, and not detected in 4 cases. Conclusion:The free DIEPF has a relatively constant perforator and the flap can be used for repairing a large area of defect. The donor site wound can be closed in Ⅰ stage surgery. Free DIEPF is suitable for repair of large upper limb wounds.

Preoperative vascular evaluation of perforator flap of peroneal artery: A comparative study between CT angiography and colour Doppler ultrasound / 中华显微外科杂志

Objective:To compare the clinical value of CTA and CDU in perforator flap of peroneal artery.Methods:From February 2013 to October 2016, 47 patients who suffered with soft tissue defects and were hospitalised in the Department of Orthopaedics, the 920th Hospital of Joint Logistic Support Force of Chinese PLA were retrospectively reviewed and evaluated. All the defects were reconstructed by the perforator flap of peroneal artery. All patients received preoperative CTA and CDU scans before surgery. Appropriate perforator vessels were selected and the locating points in body surface and external diameters of the perforator vessels were recorded and compared with intraoperative findings. SPSS 22.0 statistical software was used for data analysis. P<0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results:The intraoperative coincidence rate of the proposed perforator vessels was 97.87% for CDU and 95.74% for CTA, with no significant difference between the 2 groups( P>0.05). It was found that the preoperative CTA and CDU measurements were consistent with the actual intraoperative measurements, and there was no significant difference between the 2 groups( P>0.05). For CTA combined with CDU, an intraoperative coincidence rate was 100% in the location of peroneal perforating vessels. All flaps were followed-up for 1 to 18(mean 13.5) months. All the flaps survived well with good texture and appearance without complication. Conclusion:CDU and CTA are reliable and useful in preoperative vascular evaluation of peroneal perforator flap, and both can be used in a complementary or combined manner.

Application of "ABC" three line perforator locating method for free anterolateral perforator flap of calf / 中华显微外科杂志

Objective:To explore the feasibility of an "ABC" three line perforator locating method in design and harvest of free anterolateral perforator flap of calf.Methods:Between March 2021 and November 2021, 42 patients with 62 wounds on hand and foot were treated in the Department of Hand Surgery, Suzhou Ruihua Orthopaedic Hospital. The "ABC" three line perforator locating method was applied to determine the location and source of perforating branch before operation and to guide the design and harvest of flap during operation in wound reconstruction. Among the 42 patients, 24 had the injury of single digit, 7 had the injuries with 2 digits, 4 with 3 digits, 1 with 4 digits, 1 of the first web, 1 in the wrist, 2 of the great toe, 1 of second toe and 1 in dorsal foot. The sizes of soft tissue defect were 1.5 cm×2.0 cm-3.0 cm×14.0 cm. The sizes of the flaps were 2.0 cm×2.5 cm-3.5 cm×15.0 cm. All donor sites were sutured directly. In the follow-up, sensations of flaps were evaluated following the sensory function evaluation standard of British Medical Research Council(BMRC), and the recovery of the donor and recipient sites was evaluated by the flap comprehensive evaluation scale. Regular follow-up were scheduled at outpatient clinic.Results:A total of 162 perforators were located before operation. There were 95 perforating branches being explored in the operation, of which 5 patients had 1 extra perforating branch than that located before surgery. Seventy-six perforating branches were found consistent with preoperative localisation, with a coincidence rate of 84.4%(76/90). Sixty-four perforating branches were found consistent with the preoperative source with an accuracy rate of 84.2%(64/76). All the 62 flaps survived without a vascular compromise. Follow-up lasted for 6-10(mean 7.1) months. The colour and texture of the flaps were excellent. The flaps were thin and wear-resistant. The sensory function of the flaps was evaluated at S 1-S 3 by BMRC. Comprehensive evaluation scale of flap was excellent in 38 patients and good in 4 patients. Conclusion:"ABC" three line perforator locating method in design of free anterolateral calf flap is a feasible and an ideal auxiliary method in surgical practice. It combines anatomical knowledge, clinical experience and Doppler ultrasound localisation as well as accurately guides the location and source prediction of perforator before surgery.

Comparative Analysis of the Treatment of Skin Lesions of the Lower Limbs with Sural Flap versus Propeller Flap / Análise comparativa do tratamento de lesões cutâneas dos membros inferiores com retalho sural versus retalho propeller

Abstract Objective The objective of the present study was to prospectively compare the sural and propeller flaps for soft-tissues coverage of the lower extremity. The following variables were evaluated: incidence of complete or partial flap loss and donor area morbidity (primary closure versus skin graft). Methods Prospective and randomized analysis of data collected from all patients presenting with soft tissue defects of the lower third of the leg and heel treated with reverse sural or propeller flaps. Results Twenty-four patients aged between 4 and 60 years old were evaluated between 2011 and 2017. Complete coverage was obtained in 22 of the 24 patients (91.6%). Two flaps failed (8.4%). The sural flap, being the most popular option, continues to represent a safe and versatile alternative for skin defects of the lower third of the leg and heel region. Likewise, the propeller flap was a comparable option to treat these challenging defects. Conclusion Sural and propeller flaps are good options for soft tissues coverage of the lower extremity, with low complication rates (partial or total flap loss).

Resumo Objetivo O objetivo do presente estudo foi comparar prospectivamente os retalhos sural e propeller para cobertura de partes moles da extremidade inferior. Foram avaliadas as seguintes variáveis: incidência de perda total ou parcial do retalho e morbidade da área doadora (fechamento primário versus enxerto de pele). Métodos Análise prospectiva e randomizada de dados coletados de todos os pacientes apresentando defeitos em tecidos moles da extremidade distal da perna e do retropé submetidos aos retalhos em questão. Resultados Foram avaliados 24 pacientes com idades entre 4 e 60 anos, entre 2011 e 2017. Cobertura completa foi obtida em 22 dos 24 pacientes (91,6%) e observamos falha em 2 retalhos (8,4%). O retalho sural, sendo a opção mais popular, continua a representar uma alternativa segura e versátil para defeitos cutâneos do terço distal da perna e da região do calcanhar. O retalho propeller, da mesma maneira, mostrou-se uma opção comparável para o tratamento destas lesões desafiadoras. Conclusão Os retalhos sural e propeller são boas opções para a cobertura de partes moles da extremidade inferior, demostrando baixas taxas de complicações como perda parcial ou total do retalho.

Angiotomografía en la evaluación de arterias perforantes para reconstrucción mediante colgajos: lo que el cirujano quiere saber y el radiólogo debe informar / Computed tomography angiography for perforator flaps: What the surgeon needs to know and the radiologist should inform

Resumen Desde la introducción del concepto de «angiosomas¼ se describieron las arterias perforantes y su potencial para el uso en colgajos. La angiotomografía es un método excelente para la valoración preoperatoria en cirugías reconstructivas y es clave en la valoración prequirúrgica. Es un estudio multidisciplinario en cuyo análisis participan el radiólogo y el cirujano plástico. Es importante incluir en el reporte radiológico el origen de la arteria, detallar su curso, cuantificar el calibre y determinar su emergencia para facilitar al cirujano la planeación prequirúrgica y la realización del procedimiento quirúrgico. Otra de las principales ventajas es que el uso de este método disminuye los tiempos quirúrgicos y las posibles complicaciones de las cirugías reconstructivas. El radiólogo debe estar familiarizado con los tipos de colgajos más comúnmente utilizados, la anatomía de las arterias y sus perforantes para guiar al cirujano en la planeación prequirúrgica y la toma de decisiones.

Abstract Since the introduction of the concept of "angiosomes", the perforating arteries and their potential for use in flaps was described. Angiotomography is an excellent imaging modality for preoperative evaluation in reconstructive surgery and is very important in presurgical assessment. This imaging technique requires a multidisciplinary approach in which the radiologist and the plastic surgeon participate. The radiological report must include the origin of the artery, detail it's course, quantify the caliber and determine the position where it emerges through the fascial plane to give the surgeon the possible information in presurgical planning and surgical procedure. The main advantage of this technique is the reduction of surgical timing and possible complications. The radiologist should be familiar with the most commonly used types of flaps, the anatomy of the arteries and their perforators to guide the plastic surgeon in presurgical planning and decision making.

External Delta Fixator in the Postoperative Management of Microsurgical Flaps in the Lower Limb: Experience of a Tertiary Hospital / Fixador externo tipo delta no manejo pós-operatório de retalhos microcirúrgicos no membro inferior: Experiência de um hospital terciário

Abstract Objective To evaluate the use of external fixators in the delta-type kickstand configuration as an adjuvant method in the postoperative period of patients submitted to free flaps in the lower limbs. Methods A total of 17 external delta fixators were used in patients submitted to free flaps in the lower limbs. The surgical technique was performed in a standardized manner, with the distal pin located 6 cm proximally to the anastomosis, and the proximal pin, 6 cm distally to the anterior tuberosity of the tibia. Results The mean age of the sample was of 34.76 years (range: 15 to 66 years). In total, 11 men and 6 women were selected. The posterior tibial artery was used in 14 cases, and the anterior tibial artery, in 3 cases. The mean time of use of the external fixators was of 3.88 weeks. The rate of reoperation was of 17.64%; that of retail loss was of 11.76%; that of success rate was of 88.23%; and the rate of infection was of 5.9%. Conclusion The use of delta-type fixators as an adjunct method in the postoperative period is reliable; however, more studies are needed to evaluate its true role in the postoperative period.

Resumo Objetivo Avaliar o uso de fixadores externos, na configuração kickstand do tipo delta, como método adjuvante no período pós-operatório de pacientes submetidos a retalhos livres nos membros inferiores. Métodos Ao todo, 17 fixadores externos do tipo delta foram utilizados em pacientes submetidos a retalhos livres nos membros inferiores. A técnica cirúrgica foi realizada de forma padronizada, com o pino distal localizado 6 cm proximal à anastomose, e o pino proximal, 6cm distal à tuberosidade anterior da tíbia. Resultados A idade média da amostra foi de 34,76 anos (variação: 15 a 66 anos). Foram selecionados 11 homens e 6 mulheres. Utilizou-se a artéria tibial posterior em 14 casos, e a tibial anterior, em 3 casos. O tempo médio de uso dos fixadores externos foi de 3,88 semanas. A taxa de reoperação foi de 17,64%; a de perda do retalho foi de 11,76%; a de sucesso foi de 88,23%; e a taxa de infecção foi de 5,9%. Conclusão O uso de fixadores do tipo delta como método adjuvante no pós-operatório é confiável; porém, mais estudos são necessários para avaliar seu verdadeiro papel no pós-operatório.

Digital technology in repair of soft tissue defect in hand by anterior tibial artery perforator flap / 中华显微外科杂志

Objective:To investigate the clinical value of digital technology in repair of soft tissue defect in hand by anterior tibial artery perforator flap.Methods:From January 2015 to February 2021, 9 patients with soft tissue defects in hand were repaired with anterior tibial artery perforator flap assisted by digital technology in flap design, including 6 males and 3 females aged from 19 to 63 years with a mean age of 33 years. The size of defects varied from 2.0 cm×1.5 cm to 4.0 cm×3.0 cm, with exposed bones or tendons. Preoperative CTA scan of lower limb was performed and three-dimensional image was reconstructed with Mimics 20.0. The anterior tibial artery perforator flap was designed according to the shape and size of the defect, then the resection of flap was digitally simulated. The flap based on the digital design was harvested and the defect was repaired in the operation. The size of flap was 2.5 cm×2.0 cm~4.5 cm×3.5 cm. Outpatient clinic follow-up was performed to evaluate the survival of flaps. Disability of Arm, Shoulder and Hand(DASH) was used for function evaluation.Results:All flaps were harvested successfully and all donor sites were closed directly. After surgery, 8 flaps survived completely. One flap developed venous occlusion that showed partial necrosis of the flap, and it was rescued after exploration and re-anastomosis. The follow-up period ranged from 6 to 21 months, with an average of 13 months. The DASH scores of the affected limb were 2 to 15 points at the last follow-up, with an average of 6.4 points. Mild scar hyperplasia occurred at donor site in 1 case without sensory abnormality.Conclusion:The digital technology is able to accurately locate the perforators by allowing an individualised design of the anterior tibial artery perforator flap. The flap is suitable for repair of small and medium-sized soft tissue defect in hand, and the digital technology has certain value in clinical application.