Thermographic assessment of perforating arteries. A preoperative screening method for fasciocutaneous and musculocutaneous flaps.
Pre-operative localization of the involved perforating arteries in the planning of musculocutaneous or fasciocutaneous flaps may lead to a higher survival rate of the whole skin island. This in particular will be of importance in donor areas with changed haemodynamics. A noninvasive method is described for the accurate preoperative localization of the perforating arteries of the trunk and extremities; a method which causes minimal discomfort to the patient, but which will help in preparing for a successful operation. We have used this method since 1983 for all high-risk patients, and it has proved to be very useful in our hands.
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D001158:Arteries / Q000033:anatomy & histology*; D005205:Fascia / Q000098:blood supply*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007259:Infrared Rays; D008297:Male; D013524:Surgical Flaps; D013817:Thermography