[Soft tissue defects treated with perforator flaps].
BACKGROUND
Treatment of soft tissue defects caused by trauma, tumour surgery or pressure sores is a challenge to the reconstructive surgeon. Although contour and function may be restored by tissue transposition, traditional methods often cause significant donor site morbidity. This article describes how increased understanding of vascular anatomy has led to the development of new techniques.


METHODS
The article is based on textbooks of plastic surgery, selected articles and own clinical experience.


CONCLUSIONS
Pedicled and free perforator flaps represent the latest development in surgical treatment of soft tissue defects. The use of perforator flaps can considerably reduce the disadvantages that are associated with other surgical methods. The use of perforator flaps demands microsurgical skills, but has many advantages. Reliable vascular supply and a good aesthetical result can be combined with minimal donor site morbidity. In many cases this technique may even give sensibility to the reconstructed area.
Weum
Sven
S
Radiologisk avdeling, Universitetssykehuset Nord-Norge, 9038Tromsø. sven.weum@unn.no
de Weerd
Louis
L
Klein
Steven
S
Hage
J Joris
JJ
D002983:Clinical Competence; D049673:History, 20th Century; D006801:Humans; D008866:Microsurgery / Q000379:methods; D019651:Plastic Surgery Procedures / Q000266:history / Q000379:methods*; D017695:Soft Tissue Injuries / Q000209:etiology / Q000601:surgery*; D013524:Surgical Flaps / Q000098:blood supply / Q000266:history