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Updated: Jun 9, 2026
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An Experimental Human DIEP Flap Model to Investigate Preservation Strategies for Vascularized Composite Allografts and Free Flaps
Published on: December 5, 2025
The anatomic basis of perforator flaps.
Steven F Morris1, Maolin Tang, Khalid Almutari
1Department of Surgery, Dalhousie University, 4443-1796 Summer Street, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada. sfmorris@dal.ca
Clinics in Plastic Surgery
|September 7, 2010
Summary
Understanding the variability of cutaneous perforators is key for successful perforator flap surgery. Surgeons must adapt their plans to utilize the most appropriate perforators based on individual anatomy.
Area of Science:
- Plastic surgery
- Vascular anatomy
Background:
- Perforator flap surgery is increasingly popular.
- Successful outcomes depend on identifying suitable cutaneous perforators.
Purpose of the Study:
- To detail the size, distribution, and variability of human cutaneous vasculature.
- To inform the design and execution of perforator flap surgery.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of numerous anatomical studies on cutaneous vasculature.
Main Results:
- Main source arteries supplying the skin show consistency.
- Individual cutaneous perforators exhibit significant variability.
Conclusions:
- Awareness of vascular architecture and perforator variability is crucial.
- A flexible surgical plan allows optimal use of perforators for successful outcomes.
