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J Reconstr Microsurg 2011; 27(6): 355-364
DOI: 10.1055/s-0031-1281515
© Thieme Medical Publishers

The Application of Indocyanine Green Fluorescence Angiography in Plastic Surgery

Daniel Z. Liu1 , David W. Mathes1 , Michael R. Zenn2 , Peter C. Neligan1
  • 1Division of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, Washington
  • 2Division of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina
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Publication History

Publication Date:
29 June 2011 (online)

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ABSTRACT

In flap reconstruction of complex defects the perfusion of the reconstructive flap is critical to the ultimate success of the reconstruction. This is especially true in perforator-based flaps where it can be difficult to assess the adequacy of perfusion in the operating room. However, the ability to definitively determine the degree of flap perfusion is imperative to clinical decision-making. An emerging technology using near-infrared angiography with indocyanine green (ICG) dye may significantly improve the immediacy and accuracy of the assessment of flap perfusion. This article reviews the current state of ICG angiography and its use in clinical practice in plastic surgery. There are 17 case series, including a total of 386 patients, published in the literature using ICG angiography in various plastic surgical procedures. ICG angiography may aid flap design and assessment in the intraoperative/postoperative settings, reduce complications, and ultimately improve outcomes.

KEYWORDS

Indocyanine green - angiography - perforator flap - intraoperative imaging

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David W MathesM.D. 

Division of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Washington School of Medicine

Box 356410, 1959 NE Pacific Street, Seattle, WA 98195-6410

Email: dwmathes@u.washington.edu