Propeller perforator flaps in distal lower leg: evolution and clinical applications
Abstract
Simple or complex defects in the lower leg, and especially in its distal third, continue to be a challenging task for reconstructive surgeons. A variety of flaps were used in the attempt to achieve excellence in form and function. After a long evolution of the reconstructive methods, including random pattern flaps, axial pattern flaps, musculocutaneous flaps and fasciocutaneous flaps, the reappraisal of the works of Manchot and Salmon by Taylor and Palmer opened the era of perforator flaps. This era began in 1989, when Koshima and Soeda, and separately Kroll and Rosenfield described the first applications of such flaps. Perforator flaps, whether free or pedicled, gained a high popularity due to their main advantages: decreasing donor-site morbidity and improving functional and aesthetic outcome. The use as local perforator flaps in lower leg was possible due to a better understanding of the cutaneous circulation, leg vascular anatomy, angiosome and perforasome concepts, as well as innovations in flaps design. Somebody introduced a new expression «like-by-like». This review will describe the evolution, anatomy, flap design, and technique of the main distally pedicled propeller perforator flaps used in the reconstruction of defects in the distal third of the lower leg and foot and our experience.
About the Authors
R. B. Azimova
N.N. Blokhin Russian Cancer Research Center Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation
Russian Federation
Russian Federation
Moscow
V. A. Sobolevsky
N.N. Blokhin Russian Cancer Research Center Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation
Russian Federation
Russian Federation
Moscow
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Review
For citations:
Azimova R.B., Sobolevsky V.A. Propeller perforator flaps in distal lower leg: evolution and clinical applications. Bone and soft tissue sarcomas, tumors of the skin. 2016;(2):54-60. (In Russ.)
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