Related Experiment Video
Updated: Mar 11, 2026

An Experimental Human DIEP Flap Model to Investigate Preservation Strategies for Vascularized Composite Allografts and Free Flaps
Published on: December 5, 2025
Pre-expanded Super-Thin Skin Perforator Flaps
Chunmei Wang1, Sifen Yang1, Lee L Q Pu2
1Department of Plastic and Aesthetic Surgery, Dongguan Kanghua Hospital, 1000 Donguan Avenue, Dongguan 523080, Guangdong Province, P.R. China.
Abstract:
Patients with severe postburn scar contractures underwent reconstruction of skin defects after scar excision with pre-expanded super-thin skin perforator flaps supplied primarily by perforators via the "bridging effect" from the branches of the adjacent arteries as 2-stage procedures. Pre-expansion is an innovative technique and may improve the anastomoses between subdermal vascular plexuses and extend the supplying area of these vessels to the flap. Such a flap becomes super thin, but with a prefabricated blood supply it can be used for reconstruction of skin defects of the face, neck, or other body part with improved functional and cosmetic outcomes.

