Perforator Flap versus Conventional Flap

Abstract

The introduction of perforator flaps represented a significant advance in microsurgical reconstruction. However, confusion has developed due to the erroneous belief that perforator flaps are different from conventional flaps. The concept of the perforator is not new, but is an idea that evolved from the conventional flap. In fact, some of the flaps used by microsurgeons were perforator flaps. The only difference is the anatomical level of the blood vessels involved; the perforator concept is focused on the distal circulation, socalled 'perforator'. Therefore, thinner sections of tissue can be taken from the conventional donor sites of myocutaneous flaps. With the use of perforators, there are no longer "flap of choice" for specific reconstructions, because conventional donor sites have become universal donor sites, enabling the harvesting of a variety of flaps. Moreover, depending on the surgeon's ability, any flap can be utilized as a perforator-based island flap whose source vessel has been completely preserved. Therefore, tissues can be efficiently customized and tailored into any configuration required for reconstruction. The application of perforator flap technique enables more precise dissection, and allows more selective harvesting of thinner flaps, which will expand options in reconstructive surgery. No doubt the technique will continue to evolve.