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Semin Plast Surg 2020; 34(03): 210-220
DOI: 10.1055/s-0040-1714087
Review Article

Complications and Solutions in Propeller Flap Surgery

Marta Cajozzo
1   Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgical Oncological and Oral Sciences (DICHIRONS), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
,
Lucian P. Jiga
2   Department of Plastic, Aesthetic, Reconstructive and Hand Surgery, Evangelisches Krankenhaus Oldenburg, University of Oldenburg, Oldenburg, Germany
,
Zaher Jandali
2   Department of Plastic, Aesthetic, Reconstructive and Hand Surgery, Evangelisches Krankenhaus Oldenburg, University of Oldenburg, Oldenburg, Germany
,
Mismil Muradov
3   Department of Plastic Surgery, Syzganov National Scientific Center of Surgery, Almaty, Kazakhstan
,
Marco Pignatti
4   Department of Plastic Surgery, Policlinico di Sant'Orsola, DIMES, Bologna University, Bologna, Italy
,
Adriana Cordova
1   Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgical Oncological and Oral Sciences (DICHIRONS), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
,
Salvatore D'Arpa
1   Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgical Oncological and Oral Sciences (DICHIRONS), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
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Abstract

Propeller perforator flaps (PPFs) have long been proven as valid reconstructive tools for a wide range of soft tissue defects in different body regions. During the last decade, despite their numerous advantages, many authors have thoroughly analyzed outcomes of these flaps, sometimes discouraging their use mainly because of a high failure rate. Accurate patient selection, adequate preoperative planning, and an appropriate dissection technique seem to potentially improve outcomes. Our study provides a review of the relevant literature related to PPF complications and of our experience, describing reasons for failure, measures for preventing them, and approaches for a prompt evaluation and management of complications.

Keywords

propeller flap - perforator flap - reconstructive surgery - risk factors - complications


Publication History

Article published online:
22 September 2020

© 2020. Thieme. All rights reserved.

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