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J Reconstr Microsurg 2021; 37(02): 111-118
DOI: 10.1055/s-0040-1714427
Original Article

Perforator Mapping Practice for Deep Inferior Epigastric Artery Perforator Flap Reconstructions: A Survey of the Benelux Region

Vivian B. Boer 
1   Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Gelre Hospital, Apeldoorn, the Netherlands
,
Jan J. van Wingerden 
2   Department of Plastic, Reconstructive and Hand Surgery, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
,
Carolien F. Wever
1   Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Gelre Hospital, Apeldoorn, the Netherlands
,
Michiel R. Beets
3   Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Deventer Hospital, Deventer, the Netherlands
,
Pauline D. Verhaegen
1   Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Gelre Hospital, Apeldoorn, the Netherlands
,
Moustapha Hamdi
4   Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Brussels University Hospital, Vrij Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
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Abstract

Background Numerous new and novel imaging techniques for preoperative perforator selection in deep inferior epigastric artery perforator (DIEP) flap planning have been introduced. To what extent, these have been adopted into or replaced routine practice has hitherto remained unknown. The purpose of this study was to identify the currently preferred technique by reconstructive surgeons, the criteria that they regard as most relevant and what impact these have on the preoperative decision-making.

Methods An online survey consisting of 25 questions was sent to members of the Benelux Societies for Plastic Surgery. Information regarding experience and preferred imaging modality was requested. Specific questions addressed the utilization of computed tomography angiography (CTA) and factors that could inform preoperative perforator selection. Results were anonymously collected, managed using REDCap, and analyzed using Chi-square statistic.

Results Seventy-nine principal surgeons could be included. A variation in surgeon experience was observed. On CTA, the preferred imaging modality, large-caliber vessels, the location of the perforator in the flap, and its intramuscular course were considered the most significant criteria. Surgeons doing more than 20 DIEP flaps per year are less concerned about the distance of the perforator from the umbilicus (p = 0.003) but more likely to choose a medial perforator (p = 0.011). No statistical difference was found in surgeons' experience between those who would choose and use one specific (medial or lateral) perforator when they are analogous on CTA, and those who would delay the decision until both perforators have been exposed.

Conclusion Advantages and disadvantages of the current practice of preoperative perforator selection by surgeons who are primarily responsible for harvesting a DIEP flap have been clearly identified. Indications are that these could be widely representative in which case, the quest for a protocol or modality that maximizes the benefit and minimizes harm in preoperative perforator mapping is urgently required.

Keywords

breast reconstruction - DIEP - perforator - mapping - survey


Publication History

Received: 06 April 2020

Accepted: 16 June 2020

Article published online:
29 July 2020

© 2020. Thieme. All rights reserved.

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