Pre-Expanded Perforator Flaps: A Comprehensive Guide

This issue of Clinics in Plastic Surgery, expertly curated by Drs. Lee L.Q. Pu and Chunmei Wang, delves into the intricacies of Pre-Expanded Perforator Flaps. The collection of articles offers a detailed exploration of contemporary concepts, anatomic studies, development, and clinical applications of these flaps.

Overview of Pre-Expanded Perforator Flaps

Pre-Expanded Perforator Flaps: An Overview provides a broad understanding of the concept, anatomic study, development, and clinical application of these flaps. This foundational knowledge sets the stage for a deeper exploration of the various types of pre-expanded perforator flaps and their applications.

Imaging Studies for Perforator Flaps

Imaging Studies for Perforator Flaps (Pre-Operative Planning and Flap Design) discusses the importance of imaging in pre-operative planning and flap design. This article highlights the role of imaging in identifying the optimal perforator locations and designing the flap to ensure successful outcomes.

Types of Pre-Expanded Perforator Flaps

The following articles delve into specific types of pre-expanded perforator flaps, including:

• Super-Thin Skin Perforator Flaps: This article explores the use of pre-expanded super-thin skin perforator flaps in various reconstructive procedures.
• Transverse Cervical Perforator Flap: The transverse cervical perforator flap is discussed in detail, highlighting its applications and advantages in head and neck reconstruction.
• Internal Mammary Perforator Flap: This article focuses on the internal mammary perforator flap, its anatomy, and its applications in breast reconstruction.
• Deep Inferior Epigastric Perforator Flap: The deep inferior epigastric perforator flap is examined, with a focus on its use in abdominal wall reconstruction and other applications.
• Intercostal Perforator Flap: The intercostal perforator flap is explored, highlighting its potential in chest wall reconstruction and other procedures.
• Thoracodorsal Perforator Flap: This article discusses the thoracodorsal perforator flap, its anatomy, and its applications in various reconstructive procedures.
• Paraumbilical Perforator Flap: The paraumbilical perforator flap is presented, with a focus on its use in abdominal wall reconstruction and other applications.
• Supraclavicular Perforator Flap: The supraclavicular perforator flap is discussed, highlighting its potential in head and neck reconstruction.
• Free Perforator Flaps: This article explores the use of pre-expanded free perforator flaps, including IMAP, ICAP, LCFAP, TDAP, and LAP, in various reconstructive procedures.

Clinical Applications of Pre-Expanded Perforator Flaps

The following articles showcase the clinical applications of pre-expanded perforator flaps in various reconstructive procedures:

• Total Nasal Resurfacing: This article demonstrates the use of pre-expanded perforator flaps in total nasal resurfacing, highlighting the advantages and outcomes of this approach.
• Total Facial Resurfacing: The use of pre-expanded, pre-fabricated perforator flaps for total facial resurfacing is explored, with a focus on the benefits and challenges of this procedure.
• Total Hand Resurfacing: This article discusses the application of pre-expanded, pre-fabricated perforator flaps in total hand resurfacing, highlighting the potential of this approach in reconstructive surgery.

Future Perspectives of Pre-Expanded Perforator Flaps

Finally, the issue concludes with an exploration of the future perspectives of pre-expanded perforator flaps, including theoretical advancements and potential clinical applications.

This comprehensive guide offers a detailed understanding of pre-expanded perforator flaps, from their concept and development to their clinical applications and future perspectives. It serves as a valuable resource for plastic surgeons, researchers, and students seeking to advance their knowledge in this field.