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Semin Plast Surg 2006; 20(2): 053-055
DOI: 10.1055/s-2006-941710
Copyright © 2006 by Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc., 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.

The Evolution of Perforator Flaps

Farah N. Khan1 , Aldona J. Spiegel1
  • 1Institute for Reconstructive Surgery at The Methodist Hospital, Houston, TX
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Publication History

Publication Date:
29 May 2006 (online)

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ABSTRACT

Perforator flaps have recently become ubiquitous in the field of plastic surgery. To understand and appreciate their unique nature, it is necessary to compare and contrast them with the development of other types of flaps. A complete yet abridged version of the history of flap surgery is presented in this article. Beginning with Sushruta's Indian cheek flap method for nasal reconstruction, a trip through time and space is taken to highlight the milestones leading to the evolution of the perforator flap. Random pattern skin flaps, axial pattern skin flaps, and musculocutaneous flaps are all discussed. Finally, the future of perforator flaps is presented.

KEYWORDS

Perforator flaps - history of flap surgery

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Farah N KhanM.D. 

Institute for Reconstructive Surgery, The Methodist Hospital

6560 Fannin Street, Suite 800, Houston, TX 77030