Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 30, 2026
An Experimental Human DIEP Flap Model to Investigate Preservation Strategies for Vascularized Composite Allografts and Free Flaps
Published on: December 5, 2025
Extended deep inferior epigastric artery perforator flap for head and neck reconstruction: a clinical experience with
Jaume Masià1, Maria Sommario, Daniele Cervelli
1Department of Plastic Surgery, Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau (Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona), Sant Antoni M. Claret 167, 08025 Barcelona, Spain. jmasia@santpau.cat
Background:
The extended deep inferior epigastric perforator (DIEP) artery flap had been described in 1983. For head and neck reconstruction, we have been using a variation of this flap, namely a perforator free flap of the deep inferior epigastric system with a superolateral extension of the skin paddle.
Methods:
The purpose of this study was to present our 10-year experience in the performance of 102 soft tissue head and neck reconstructions with the extended DIEP flap in 100 patients.
Results:
Depending on the reconstructive needs, we used the extended DIEP flap in 3 ways: as a cutaneous perforator flap (52.9%), as a chimeric perforator flap (6.9%), and as a myocutaneous perforator flap (40.2%). The overall flap survival rate was 97.1%. Three flaps (2.9%) totally necrosed. Partial flap loss occurred in 5.9% of the cases.
Conclusion:
The extended DIEP flap is reliable, has a safe vascular supply, and has a long pedicle. Its versatility makes it suitable for reconstruction of moderate to large head and neck reconstruction.
