Abstract
A propeller flap is an islanded flap that reaches the recipient site through an axial
rotation around its vascular axis. The degree of rotation varies from 90 degrees to
180 degrees. It is a highly reliable local reconstructive option. These flaps are
simple, single-stage, easy to harvest, and not constrained by routine length-to-width
ratios. Since their introduction, the technique has continued to evolve and more applications
for the use of propeller flaps are being explored. In spite of their growing use in
clinical practice in recent years, many reconstructive surgeons are unaware of their
versatility, unsure of their safety, and apprehensive about using propeller flaps
confidently. This article aims at understanding the nomenclature, key principles,
biogeometry and planning, operative technical details, applications, and complications
of propeller flaps.
Keywords
propeller flap - local flap - perforator flap - biogeometry - post-burn reconstruction
- head and neck flaps - extremity flaps
