• Archives of Reconstructive Microsurgery
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• v.8 no.2
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• pp.139-148
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• 1999

Since Nakayama's first report about venous flap, many experimental and clinical studies were done about this new type of flap. And due to its various benefits, its applications as arterialized venous free flap type have increased recently. In this study we have attempted to reconstruct composite of defects of the hand with new modification of arterialized venous free flap and simultaneous reconstruction of skin, nerve, tendon were performed successfully. From 1994 to 1999, the defects of the hands in 35 patients were reconstructed with various modifications of arterialized venous free flaps. The range of age was from 19 to 55 years and size of flap ranged from $1{\times}2cm\;to\;14{\times}9cm$. Among them, 12 cases of flap over 20cm in size were included. Indications of flaps were as follows: resurfacing of the defects of the skin (9 cases), simultaneous reconstruction of extensor, skin and digital nerve(2 cases), reconstruction of the skin with extensor(5 cases), as a flap-through type vascular reconstruction(6 cases), for digital nerve reconstruction(2 cases), contracture release(3 cases), and finger tip reconstruction(9 cases). All of the cases except one survived with marginal skin necrosis less than 10%. And relatively large flaps over 20cm in size successfully survived without any delay procedures. Composite reconstructions including tendon and nerve were successful with new modifications of this flap. Arterialized venous free flap is one of the useful procedure in reconstruction of the hand because it has many advantages such as non-bulky and good quality of flap, variable length of pedicle, preservation of major vascular pedicle, less operation time, single operative field and in addition possibility of various modifications.

• Archives of Reconstructive Microsurgery
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• v.16 no.2
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• pp.108-112
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• 2007

The general treatment methods of chronic osteomyelitis of calcaneus with soft tissue defect was curettage of necrotic bone with antibiotics mixed bone cement insertion or cancellous bone grafting, and free or pedicled flap coverage. The muscle flap for soft tissue defect has many advantages including control of infection, but in cases of pedicled flap in calcaneus, there are some limitations because of functional loss of the donor site, limitation of pedicled length of donor muscle In these reason, free muscle flap was more preferred for pedicled muscle flap. But, in case of small sized defect which was located in center or lateral side of calcaneus, the abductor digiti minimi muscle flap can be one of the solutions. The abductor digiti minimi muscle flap has minimal functional loss of donor site and can be performed easily. There are some reports of the abductor digiti minimi muscle flap in other country, but in korea, this report is the first case report of the abductor digiti minimi muscle flap. We performed one case of abductor digiti minimi muscle flap as a treatment of chronic osteomyelitis of calcaneus and could obtain a good result.

• Archives of Reconstructive Microsurgery
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• v.22 no.1
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• pp.7-12
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• 2013

Purpose: Breast reconstruction with lower abdominal tissue can produce the best outcome with acceptable rates of long-term complication. However, for cases in which sufficient abdominal tissue is not available, an superior gluteal artery perforator (SGAP) flap can be considered as the next option for autologous breast reconstruction. Materials and Methods: Among a total of 63 women who underwent breast reconstruction with free autologous tissue transfer from July 2010 to April 2011, SGAP flap was performed for four patients. In two cases, patients did not have enough abdominal tissue for sizable breast reconstruction. In another case, the patient had a long abdominal scar due to donor hepatectomy of liver transplantation. In the last case, which was a revisional case after radiation necrosis of a previous pedicled transverse rectus abdominis musculocutaneous (TRAM) flap, a large amount of healthy skin and soft tissue was needed. SGAP flap was elevated in lateral decubitus position. The internal mammary vessels were used for recipient vessels in all cases. Results: Breast reconstruction was performed successfully in all four cases without flap loss. Donor site complication was not observed, except for one case of seroma. The shape of the reconstructed breast was satisfactory in all patients. Conclusion: SGAP flap is an excellent alternative option for the TRAM or deep inferior epigastric artery perforator flap for breast reconstruction. In terms of narrower width, harder consistency of soft tissue, and shorter pedicle, it is clear that the SGAP flap is less competent than the TRAM flap. However, in cases where abdominal tissue is not available, SGAP flap is the only way of providing a large amount of healthy tissue.

• Archives of Plastic Surgery
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• v.32 no.5
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• pp.561-566
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• 2005

Even though it is generalized to perform synchronous lip and nasal correction, there are some cases in need of secondary correction of cleft lip nose deformity. In these procedures, the lengthening of columella plays an important role. We performed eighteen cases of the secondary cleft lip nose deformity correction using two different methods from 1997 to 2003. The central lip flap was used in eight patients and V-Y advancement flap in ten patients. Additional procedures including reverse U-incision, interdomal fixation sutures and suspension sutures were used for correction of combined deformity. Silastic nasal retainers were kept in all patients for 6 months. Both of central lip flap and V-Y advancement flap seems to be a good technique for lengthening columellar soft tissue. But new columella after V-Y advancement flap appeared to be too narrow and a bit unnatural looking and central lip flap left additional scar on the upper lip although it was conspicuous. We think that central lip flap is a better technique in a case with wide philtrum and narrow columella and V-Y advancement flap can be another choice in a columella with sufficient width.

• Archives of Plastic Surgery
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• v.34 no.4
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• pp.448-454
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• 2007

Purpose: The objective of this study was to evaluate the outcomes of using the free flap in the reconstruction of maxillary defects. Methods: 27 consecutive cases of maxillary reconstruction with free flap were reviewed. All clinical data were analyzed, including ideal selection of flap, time of reconstruction, recurrence of cancer, postoperative complications, flap design, and follow-up results. The main operative functional items, including speech, oral diet, mastication, eye globe position and function, respiration, and aesthetic results were evaluated. Results: Among the 24 patients who underwent maxillary reconstruction with the free flap, 14 patients underwent immediate reconstruction after maxillary cancer ablation, and 10 patients underwent delayed reconstruction. There occurred 1 flap loss. Recurrences of the cancer after the reconstruction happened in 2 cases. Postoperative complications were 3 cases of gravitational ptosis of the flap, 2 cases of the nasal obstruction, and 1 case of fistula formation. Out of 27 free flaps, there were 15 latissimus dorsi myocutaneous flaps, 5 radial forearm, 4 rectus abdominis myocutaneous flaps, 1 scapular flap, 2 fibula osteocutaneous flap, respectively. Flaps were designed such as 1 lobe in 9 cases, 2 lobes in 9 cases, and 3 lobes in 5 cases. Among the 14 patients who had intraoral defect or who had palatal resection surgery, 2 patients complained the inaccuracy of the pronunciation due to the ptosis of the flap. It was corrected by the reconstruction of the maxillary buttress and hung the sling to the upper direction. All of the 14 patients were able to take unrestricted diets. In 6 patients who had reconstruction of inferior orbital wall with rib bone graft, they preserved normal vision. Aesthetically, most of the patients were satisfied with the result. Conclusion: LD free flap is suggested in uni-maxilla defect as the 1st choice, and fibular osteocutaneous flap and calvarial bone graft to cover the larger defect in bi-maxilla defect.

• Archives of Plastic Surgery
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• v.46 no.4
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• pp.318-323
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• 2019

Background Pedicled flaps are useful for reconstructive surgery. Previously, we often used vascularized supraclavicular flaps, especially for head and neck reconstruction, but then shifted to using thoracic branch of the supraclavicular artery (TBSA) flaps. However, limited research exists on the anatomy of TBSA flaps and on the use of indocyanine green (ICG) fluorescence videoangiography for supraclavicular artery flaps. We utilized ICG fluorescence videoangiography to harvest reliable flaps in reconstructive operations, and describe the results herein. Methods Data were retrospectively reviewed from six patients (five men and one woman: average age, 54 years; range, 48-60 years) for whom ICG videoangiography was performed to observe the skin perfusion of a supraclavicular flap after it was raised. Areas where the flap showed good enhancement were considered to be favorable for flap survival. The observation of ICG dye indicated good skin perfusion, which is predictive of flap survival; therefore, we trimmed any areas without dye filling and used the remaining viable part of the flap. Results The flaps ranged in size from $13{\times}5.5cm$ to $17{\times}6.5cm$. One patient received a conventional supraclavicular flap, four patients received a TBSA flap, and one patient received a flap that was considered to be intermediate between a supraclavicular flap and a TBSA flap. The flaps completely survived in all cases, and no flap necrosis was observed. Conclusions The TBSA flap is very useful in reconstructive surgery, and reliable flaps could be obtained by using ICG fluorescence videoangiography intraoperatively.

• Archives of Plastic Surgery
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• v.50 no.6
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• pp.586-592
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• 2023

Background One-stage reconstruction with "thin perforator flaps" has been attempted to salvage limbs and restore function. The deep inferior epigastric perforator (DIEP) flap is a commonly utilized flap in breast reconstruction (BR). The purpose of this study is to present the versatility of DIEP flaps for the reconstruction of large defects of the extremities. Methods Patients with large tissue defects on extremities who were treated with thin DIEP flaps from January 2016 to January 2018 were included. They were minimally followed up for 36 months. We analyzed the etiology and location of the soft tissue defect, flap design, anastomosis type, outcome, and complications. We also considered the technical differences in the DIEP flap between breast and extremity reconstruction. Results Overall, six free DIEP flaps were included in the study. The flap size ranged from 15 × 12 to 30 × 16 cm². All flaps were transversely designed similar to a traditional BR design. Three flaps were elevated with two perforators. Primary closure of the donor site was possible in all cases. Five flaps survived with no complications. However, partial necrosis occurred in one flap. Conclusion A DIEP flap is not the first choice for soft tissue defects, but it should be considered for one-stage reconstruction of large defects when the circulation zone of the DIEP flap is considered. In addition, this flap has many advantages over other flaps such as provision of the largest skin paddle, low donor site morbidity with a concealed scar, versatile supercharging technique, and a long pedicle.

• Archives of Plastic Surgery
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• v.50 no.6
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• pp.593-600
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• 2023

Background Soft tissue reconstruction around the knee area is still an open question, particularly in persistent infections and multiple reoperations scenario. Flap coverage should guarantee jointmobility and protection, even when foreign materials are implanted. The chimeric harvesting of the musculocutaneous gastrocnemius flap, based on the sural artery perforators, can extend its applicability in soft tissue reconstruction of the upper leg, overcoming the drawbacks of the alternative pedicled flaps. Methods A multicenter retrospective study was conducted enrolling patients who underwent to a pedicled, chimeric gastrocnemius musculocutaneous-medial sural artery perforator (GM-MSAP) or lateral sural artery perforator (GM-LSAP) flap for knee coverage in total knee arthroplasty (TKA) recurrent infections and oncological or traumatic defects of the upper leg from 2018 to 2021. Outcomes evaluated were the successful soft tissue reconstruction and flap complications. Surgical timing, reconstruction planning, technique, and rehabilitation protocols were discussed. Results Twenty-one patients were included in the study. Nineteen GM-MSAPs and 2 GM-LSAPs were performed (soft tissue reconstruction in infected TKA [12], in infected hardware [4], and in oncological patients [5]). Donor site was closed primarily in 9 cases, whereas a skin graft was required in 12. Flap wound dehiscence (1), distal flap necrosis (1), distal necrosis of the skin paddle (1), and donor site infection (1) were the encountered complications. Flap reraise associated to implant exchange or extensive debridement was successful without requiring any further flap surgery. Conclusion The propeller-perforator GM-MSAP offers qualitative defect coverage and easiness of multiple flap reraise due to skin availability and its laxity.

• Archives of Plastic Surgery
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• v.51 no.1
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• pp.94-101
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• 2024

Background For the small glabrous skin defect, Thenar and Hypothenar skin are useful donors and they have been used as a free flap. Because of similar skin characteristics, both flaps have same indications. We will conduct comparative study for the donor morbidity of the Free thenar flap and Hypothenar free flap. Methods From January 2011 to December 2021, demographic data, characteristics of each flap, and complications using retrospective chart review were obtained. Donor outcomes of the patient, who had been followed up for more than 6 months, were measured using photographic analysis and physical examination. General pain was assessed by Numeric Rating Scale (NRS) score, neuropathic pain was assessed by Douleur Neuropathique 4 Questions (DN4) score, scar appearance was assessed by modified Vancouver Scar Scale (mVSS), and patient satisfaction was assessed on a 3-point scale. Statistical analysis was performed on the outcomes. Results Out of the 39 survey respondents, 17 patients received Free thenar flaps, and 22 patients received Hypothenar free flaps. Thenar group had higher NRS, DN4, and mVSS (p < 0.05). The average scores for the Thenar and Hypothenar groups were 1.35 and 0.27 for NRS, 2.41 and 0.55 for DN4, and 3.12 and 1.59 for mVSS, respectively. Despite the Hypothenar group showing greater satisfaction on the 3-point scale (1.82) compared with the Thenar group (1.47), the difference was not significant (p = 0.085). Linear regression analysis indicated that flap width did not have a notable impact on the outcome measures, and multiple linear regression analysis revealed no significant interaction between flap width and each of the outcome measures. Conclusion Despite the limited number of participants, higher donor morbidity in general pain, neuropathic pain, and scar formation was noted in the Thenar free flap compared with the Hypothenar free flap. However, no difference in overall patient satisfaction was found between the two groups.

• Korean Journal of Head & Neck Oncology
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• v.16 no.1
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• pp.26-32
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• 2000

Background and Objectives: Various flaps are using for reconstruction of hypopharyngeal and esophageal defect. However, complication and indication of each flap are not fully analyzed. Patient and Methods: Records of 52 hypopharyngeal cancer patients who had surgical treatment and 13 other head and neck cancer patients who underwent hypopharyngeal and/or esophageal reconstruction with flap were retrospectively analyzed. Eighty three percent(54 cases) of patients needed reconstruction other than primary pharyngeal closure. Five split thickness skin graft, 1 pectoralis major myocutaneous flap, 20 forearm free flap, 13 jejunal free flap, 15 gastric pull up were used. Result: Flap failure was noted in 2 cases who had subsequent gastric transposition. Wound dehiscence and fistula were most common problem of forearm free flap. Most fistulas were developed in patients with conduit type reconstruction of forearm flap while there wasn't any fistula in patient with patch type reconstruction. Stenosis of lower anastomosis was the frequent problem of jejunal transfer. Gastric pull-up has frequent com-plication of stomal stenosis. All but three patients had reached oral feeding postoperatively. Conclusion: Based on this study, forearm flap is effective in partial hypopharyngeal defect while jejunum is the choice for circumferential defect. Gastric pull-up is for combined esophageal defect.