Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 15, 2026
07:57
An Experimental Human DIEP Flap Model to Investigate Preservation Strategies for Vascularized Composite Allografts and Free Flaps
Published on: December 5, 2025
Epiperitoneal vessels: more resources to perform DIEP flaps
1Hospital General Universitario Gregorio Marañón, Servicio de Cirugía Plástica y Reparadora, Madrid, Spain. jm_lasso@hotmail.com
Summary
This study presents an alternative surgical technique for breast reconstruction using epiperitoneal vessels when the main Deep Inferior Epigastric Perforator (DIEP) flap has insufficient blood flow, ensuring successful outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Plastic Surgery
- Vascular Surgery
- Reconstructive Surgery
Background:
- Deep Inferior Epigastric Perforator (DIEP) flap is a standard for breast reconstruction.
- Limited options exist for improving perfusion in cases of inadequate flap vascularization.
Observation:
- A 42-year-old patient underwent left mastectomy and DIEP flap breast reconstruction.
- Post-anastomosis to internal mammary vessels, the flap exhibited insufficient arterial perfusion.
Findings:
- An independent medial perforator artery from the peritoneal layer (epiperitoneal vessels) was utilized.
- This epiperitoneal vessel pedicle was successfully anastomosed to the inferior epigastric artery, resolving perfusion issues.
Implications:
- Epiperitoneal vessels offer a viable emergency pedicle option in DIEP flap surgery.
- This technique provides an alternative solution for inadequate flap vascularization in breast reconstruction.
