[Deep inferior epigastric perforator flap for vaginal reconstruction].
OBJECTIVE
To evaluate a new alternative method for the reconstruction of vagina with deep inferior epigastric perforator (DIEP) flap.


METHODS
From January 2004 to May 2005, DIEP flaps were used for vaginal reconstruction in 5 patients (19 to 40 years), including 4 cases of congenital vaginal agenesis and I case of vaginal tumor. Before operation, the perforators were detected by the Doppler and the flaps based on the perforators ranged from 10 cmX 9 cm to 12 cmX 11 cm. DIEP flaps were elevated and then transferred to reconstruct the vagina.


RESULTS
Deep inferior epigastric perforator flaps were used in 5 patients. Only 1 patient developed haematoma in the posterior aspect of the reconstructed vagina, but the flap was viable. The wounds healed secondarily after conservative therapy. All the flaps survived completely. No complication occurred at donor site of abdominal wall.


CONCLUSIONS
Despite technical difficulties in elevating the deep inferior epigastric perforator flap, the flap is a good choice for vaginal reconstruction.
Wang
Xiancheng
X
Department of Plastic and Cosmetic Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100730, P.R. China. wangxiancheng64@hotmail.com
Qiao
Qun
Q
Burd
Andrew
A
D000328:Adult; D019074:Epigastric Arteries / Q000637:transplantation*; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D019651:Plastic Surgery Procedures / Q000379:methods*; D013524:Surgical Flaps; D014621:Vagina / Q000601:surgery*