Propeller Flaps

Geoffrey G. Hallock, MD

Marco Pignatti, MD

This issue of Seminars in Plastic Surgery is dedicated to propeller flaps. These flaps, which are defined as island flaps that reach the recipient site through an axial rotation, have a relevant role in soft tissue reconstruction of different anatomical areas, and provide an elegant, moderately invasive, “like with like” solution, in a reasonable operating time. Depending on the anatomical area, microsurgical skills and magnification means may be necessary to obtain good results.

The decision to use this kind of flap should be part of the usual process that evaluates the right solution for each defect, considering etiology, size, patient's features, and clinical history. Propeller flaps can be the right choice for one case but be too risky for another, in which a traditional flap or a microsurgical free flap may be preferable.

To help guide the reconstructive surgeon in choosing the best option to obtain optimal results, we asked several experts in this field to help us to discuss the history, definition, classification, new developments, planning, surgical technique, applications in different parts of the body, monitoring, and, finally, complications, and how to prevent and treat them. We would like to thank all the authors for their contribution. Their efforts and willingness to share their experience will be of great help to all of us who strive to obtain the best possible outcome for our patients.

Publication History

Article published online:
22 September 2020