[Localization of perforators in the lower leg by digital antomy imaging methods].
OBJECTIVE
To offer both the accurate three-dimensional anatomical information and algorithmic morphology of perforators in the lower leg for perforator flaps design.


METHODS
The cadaver was injected with a modified lead oxide-gelatin mixture. Radiography was first performed and the images were analyzed using the software Photoshop and Scion Image. Then spiral CT scan was also performed and 3-dimensional images were reconstructed with MIMICS 10.01 software.


RESULTS
There are (27 +/- 4) perforators whose outer diameter > or = 0.5 mm ( average, 0.8 +/- 0.2 mm). The average pedicle length within the superficial fascia is (37.3 +/- 18.6) mm. The average supplied area of each perforator is (49.5 +/- 25.5) cm2. The three-dimensional model displayed accurate morphology structure and three-dimensional distribution of the perforator-to- perforator and perforator-to-source artery.


CONCLUSIONS
The 3D reconstruction model can clearly show the geometric, local details and three-dimensional distribution. It is a considerable method for the study of morphological characteristics of the individual perforators in human calf and preoperative planning of the perforator flap.
Department of Hand Surgery, Ningbo 6th People's Hospital, Ningbo 315040, China.
Peng
P
Wei
Liang-Liang
LL
Ma
Ye-Dong
YD
Fang
Wei-Zhi
WZ
Xia
Mao-Chao
MC
Ding
Jin
J
Mei
D001158:Arteries; D002102:Cadaver; D006801:Humans; D007091:Image Processing, Computer-Assisted / Q000379:methods*; D021621:Imaging, Three-Dimensional; D007866:Leg / Q000098:blood supply*; D061525:Perforator Flap / Q000098:blood supply*; D013524:Surgical Flaps