Both color Doppler US and CT angiography resulted in accurate DIEP mapping. Color Doppler US was superior for measuring perforator artery calibers, and CT angiography was superior for estimating the intramuscular course of the perforator vessel and identifying superficial venous communications. Considering x-ray exposure and results of this study, employing multidetector CT angiography is suggested only in selected cases.

The objective of this study was to assess the reconstructive options after radical, extensive vulvectomy; relate them to tumor characteristics; and select a choice of flaps able to correct every remaining defect. This study is a retrospective review of a 4-year experience with 31 flaps in 20 consecutive vulvar reconstructions. Three of the 31 flaps presented nonsignificant delayed healing at their tips and 3 other flaps developed a major breakdown related to an infection or an error in flap planning. According to the authors, the size of the defect is the main issue that must be taken into consideration during the establishment of reconstructive needs. Closure of vulvar defects is preferably performed using fasciocutaneous flaps, which are very reliable flaps and can be raised with different techniques to meet different needs. A flap is then chosen with the fewest potential complications. An algorithm has been thus established: Small to medium-size defects are closed with island V-Y flaps, island gluteal fold flaps, or pedicled pudendal thigh flaps. Among them, the island V-Y flap is the workhorse flap for vulvar reconstruction because of its versatility, reliability, and technical simplicity compared with its very low complication rate. If the vulvar defect is large and/or reaches the vulva-crural fold, V-Y flaps are also preferred to close these large and posteriorly extended excisions. If the vulvar defect is very large, extending both anteriorly and posteriorly, the use of a distally based, vertically oriented rectus abdominis muscle flap is recommended. Using this algorithm, immediate vulvar reconstruction with pedicled local or regional flaps can be performed easily and reliably.

The authors' series suggest that nipple-sparing mastectomy is an option for carefully selected and screened patients. Larger studies with longer follow-up are needed, however. On the whole, the immediate one-stage implant reconstruction with hyperprojected anatomical gel implants represents a valid option. The skin incision algorithm proposed, which is based on the breast size, shape, and previous scars, might aid in the decision-making process to achieve satisfying results using this procedure. The radial approaches represent a good compromise between the oncologic and reconstructive procedures.

The latissimus dorsi (LD) musculocutaneous flap with implant has been widely used for breast reconstruction. This technique, which is safe and reliable, results in the sacrifice of the largest muscle in the body with high seroma incidence in the donor site. The thoracodorsal artery perforator (TDAP) flap spares the LD muscle. However, the TDAP has never been used together with implant for breast reconstruction. We present our strategies in sparing the LD muscle by using the TDAP flap with an implant beneath. The perforator was always mapped preoperatively. The TDAP flap was designed with the perforator located at the proximal part. Modifications to the flap should be done when multiple small perforators are found or when the perforator enters the subcutaneous tissue in the middle of the flap. A small segment of the muscle is included in the flap behind the perforator (LD-muscle sparing TDAP type I) to protect perforator compression by the implant. In very thin patients, a larger segment of the LD is needed to cover the implant (LD muscle-sparing TDAP type II). In both situations, the rest of the LD muscle is spared with its motor innervation. We present 4 patients who underwent a TDAP flap with implant for breast reconstruction. The flaps were transferred successfully. No seroma formation occurred. Combining a TDAP flap with an implant is feasible. Perforator mapping with correct flap design is the keystone in this technique. Reducing donor site morbidity and seroma rate are the ultimate goals of this technique. The TDAP flap should be modified to an LD muscle-sparing version in any case of unfavorable anatomic or clinical situations.

• Identification of deep inferior epigastric perforators (DIEP) is important before breast reconstruction. • Both CT and MR angiography are accurate in identifying DIEA perforator branches. • CTA and MRA are equivalent in demonstrating perforator-venous connections. • MRA can be proposed as an alternative to CTA in DIEP planning.

Therapeutic, IV.

No abstract

The NIRS is a reliable additional tool in free flap monitoring. A careful evaluation should be given to patients and surgery factors that can change the oximetry data.