[Distribution of deep inferior epigastric perforator vessel and application of the expanded perforator flaps].

OBJECTIVE

To explore the distribution of deep inferior epigastric perforator vessel and application of the expanded perforator flap for large scar on hand and forearm.

METHODS

20 healthy adults were selected to detect the distribution of deep inferior epigastric perforator vessel. 10 cases with cicatricial constriction on hand and forearm were treated with expanded perforator flap.

RESULTS

425 perforator points were detected on the skin surface of abdomen in 20 adults. 80% of the points are located within the area which is 1.1 -5.8 cm far from the mid-line of abdomen. According to the Rand method, the percentage of the points in zone I , II , III were 26%, 43%, and 30%, respectively. There were few points in zone IV. The area around navel had a high density of points. The points were distributed asymmetrically at the two sides of abdomen. 10 cases were treated. Vascular deficiency happened at the distal end of one flap. All the other 9 flaps survived.

CONCLUSIONS

The expanded deep inferior epigastric perforator flap is thin and has a large size. It is very suitable for large scar on forearm or hand.