Three-Dimensional Analysis of the Perforators of the Integument in the Human Thigh

Abstract

Soft tissue defects resulting from trauma, cancer surgery or congenital abnormalities can occur throughout the body, and are reconstructed with surgical flaps by plastic surgeons. Perforator flaps are the most recent applications of surgical tissue transfers. These tissue transfers are reliant on a single artery and vein, which perfuse a portion of tissue with the blood required for survival. As a result of diminished flap bulk, minimal donor site morbidity, and more donor site choices, perforator flaps are considered to be an advanced form of tissue transfer. Fifteen thighs obtained from 10 fresh human cadavers were studied. This study employed the 3D imaging software, Materialise’s Interactive Medical Image Control System (MIMICS), to create 3D models of the vascular anatomy of the thigh. In total there is an average of 88 ± 16 arterial perforators supplying the integument of the thigh from nine source arteries.