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Updated: May 11, 2026

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Published on: September 29, 2018

Propeller TAP flap: is it usable for breast reconstruction?

Jørn Bo Thomsen1, Camilla Bille, Peter Wamberg

  • 1Department of Plastic Surgery, Vejle Hospital/Odense University Hospital , Vejle , Denmark.

Journal of Plastic Surgery and Hand Surgery
|May 29, 2013
PubMed
Summary

Propeller thoracodorsal artery perforator (TAP) flaps offer a viable option for breast reconstruction, preserving the descending thoracodorsal vessels. Surgeons recommend leaving a muscle cuff around the perforator for optimal venous return.

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Area of Science:

  • Plastic Surgery
  • Reconstructive Surgery
  • Microsurgery

Background:

  • Breast reconstruction aims to restore aesthetics and symmetry after mastectomy.
  • Propeller flaps are a type of autologous tissue transfer used in reconstructive surgery.
  • Thoracodorsal artery perforator (TAP) flaps utilize perforating vessels from the thoracodorsal artery.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the efficacy and safety of using propeller TAP flaps for breast reconstruction.
  • To assess the feasibility of this technique without severing the descending thoracodorsal vessels.

Main Methods:

  • A cohort of 15 women underwent breast reconstruction using propeller TAP flaps, implants, and acellular dermal matrices (ADMs).
  • Preoperative color Doppler ultrasonography was employed for precise perforator identification and patient selection.

Related Experiment Videos

Last Updated: May 11, 2026

Porcine As a Training Module for Head and Neck Microvascular Reconstruction
07:43

Porcine As a Training Module for Head and Neck Microvascular Reconstruction

Published on: September 29, 2018

  • Flap design involved either single or dual perforator-based pedicles.

    • Main Results:

    • A total of 16 propeller TAP flaps were successfully performed.
    • The majority of flaps (12) were based on a single perforator, while four utilized dual perforators.
    • Minor complications occurred in 3 patients, and major complications requiring further surgery in 2 patients. One flap was lost due to vascular compromise.

    Conclusions:

    • Propeller TAP flaps are a feasible technique for breast reconstruction, allowing preservation of the descending thoracodorsal artery.
    • Leaving a small cuff of muscle around the perforator is recommended to ensure adequate venous outflow and flap survival.