A THORACODORSAL ARTERY PERFORATOR CHIMERIC FREE FLAP FOR PREVENTION OF MICROVASCULAR PEDICLE COMPRESSION IN LOWER EXTREMITY RECONSTRUCTION

Abstract

Background: Chimeric flaps are often used in reconstructive fields for multiple defects, different functional defects, and extensive defects. In this article, we present the results of the use of thoracodorsal artery perforator (TDAp) chimeric flaps including a latissimus dorsi (LD) or serratus anterior (SA) muscle to prevent pedicle compression for lower extremity reconstruction. Methods: Nineteen TDAp chimeric flaps were used to prevent pedicle compression. Seven were female and 12 male. Patients' age ranged from 32 to 73 years. After harvesting TDAp skin flap, LD or SA muscle could be harvested along with the thoracodorsal vessels. Skin flap was incorporated into the main defect and muscle cuffs were positioned along the vascular pedicle. Results: In 11 cases, there were two components, a skin flap and a muscle flap, and the other 8 were three components, a skin flap and two muscle flaps. The dimensions of the skin flaps ranged from 835 to 18310 cm, and the muscle flaps ranged from 332 cm to 836 cm. The recipient vessel was anterior tibial artery or dorsalis pedis artery. All flap survived. Five cases suffered minor complications including donor site wound disruption, skin flap wound disruption, partial loss of the skin flap, and partial loss of the SA muscle flap. The mean follow-up was 13.9 months. All the patients were able to wear shoes without debulking procedures. Conclusion: The TDAp chimeric flaps including LD or SA muscle flaps were useful for covering the vascular pedicle and relieved vascular compression during lower extremity reconstruction.