The, effect of perforator location on epigastric perforator flap survival: An experimental and stereological study in guinea pigs

Tan O., Ergen D., Atik B., Gundogdu C., Calik I., Can I.

JOURNAL OF RECONSTRUCTIVE MICROSURGERY, vol.24, no.1, pp.43-51, 2008 (SCI-Expanded) identifier identifier identifier

  • Publication Type: Article / Article
  • Volume: 24 Issue: 1
  • Publication Date: 2008
  • Doi Number: 10.1055/s-2008-1064921
  • Journal Name: JOURNAL OF RECONSTRUCTIVE MICROSURGERY
  • Journal Indexes: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus
  • Page Numbers: pp.43-51
  • Van Yüzüncü Yıl University Affiliated: Yes

Abstract

One challenge most often seen in perforator-based flaps is the topographic relationship between the flap and its perforator, which determines flap design and pedicle length. Thirty female guinea pigs were used in this study. They were divided into four different groups including three experimental groups (n=8), which were designed as central, lateral, and distal groups according to the perforator location, and one control group (n = 6). Flap survival and vessel density rates were assessed. There was no statistically significant difference (p > 0.05) among either the surviving skin areas or the vascular density rates of the experimental groups, although all flaps were necrosed in the control group. We concluded that perforator flaps can safely be raised on the perforators located very distal or lateral to the flaps, as well as central classical location. Moreover, perforator flaps larger than suggested can safely be harvested in the same donor sites.