Pre-expanded Deep Inferior Epigastric Perforator Flap

Publication date: January 2017
Source:Clinics in Plastic Surgery, Volume 44, Issue 1
Author(s): Sharon E. Monsivais, Nicholas D. Webster, Stacy Wong, Michel H. Saint-Cyr

Teaser

The deep inferior epigastric perforator (DIEP) flap can be used to cover large defects of the proximal lower extremity, abdominal wall, perineum, vulva, and buttock. Pre-expanding DIEP flaps cause a possible delay phenomenon improving vascularity, decrease donor site morbidity, and increase the area that can be covered. Pre-expansion requires staged procedures, has risk of extrusion and infection, causes temporary contour deformity during the expansion process, and requires a longer course. Pre-expanded DIEP flaps can be a useful flap with proper patient selection and planning.


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