Predicting results of DIEP flap reconstruction: the flap viability index.
Worldwide experience with the DIEP flap has established its pre-eminent role in breast reconstruction after mastectomy. CT angiographic vascular imaging has enhanced the planning of reconstruction, allowing mapping of perforator patterns to increase the predictability of surgery. This study extends the role of perforator mapping, using measurement of perforator lumen diameters and flap weights to calculate an index that reliably predicts the amount of tissue which will survive. We call this the Flap Viability Index.
Australian School of Advanced Medicine, Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery, Innovation Road, Macquarie University, North Ryde, Sydney, NSW 2113, Australia. penn_d268@bigpond.com
David G
DG
Pennington
Philip
P
Rome
Peter
P
Kitchener
D019074:Epigastric Arteries / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D005260:Female; D006085:Graft Survival; D006801:Humans; D016462:Mammaplasty / Q000379:methods*; D008408:Mastectomy; D018579:Patient Selection; D011237:Predictive Value of Tests; D013524:Surgical Flaps / Q000098:blood supply*; D020858:Tissue and Organ Harvesting / Q000379:methods*; D014057:Tomography, X-Ray Computed; D016896:Treatment Outcome