ABSTRACT
Thoracodorsal artery perforator (TDAP) flap is a relatively new member of the perforator
flap family. The objective of this study is to describe the use of pedicled and free
TDAP flaps for various soft tissue defects. Fifteen patients underwent soft tissue
reconstruction using 16 TDAP flaps. Twelve pedicled flaps were used for axillary,
breast, and shoulder regions. Four free flaps were used for cheek, popliteal, hand,
and foot reconstruction. The flaps were harvested based on the perforators, which
were preoperatively located at or close to a point 8 cm below the posterior axillary
fold and 2 cm behind the lateral border of the latissimus dorsi muscle. Early, late,
major, and minor complications were documented. In 13 of the 16 flaps, perforators
from the thoracodorsal artery were found in the circle 3 cm in diameter, centered
on the anatomic landmark. Three other perforators were found outside this circle.
One flap loss was considered the only major complication. Minor complications occurred
in 12.5% of flaps. Although the vascular anatomy can be variable, free and pedicled
TDAP flap is a versatile option in soft tissue reconstruction.
KEYWORDS
Thoracodorsal artery perforator flap - perforator flap - TDAP - versatile flap - soft
tissue reconstruction - pedicled TDAP flap
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Serhan TuncerM.D.
42 Cadde 451, Sokak No. 8/5
Cukurambar, Ankara, Turkey