In this article, the authors discuss the advances in monitoring free tissue transfers, with a focus on the implantable Doppler system. Authors address indications and techniques for implanting the Doppler…
This article describes how dynamic infrared thermography (DIRT) can be used in autologous breast reconstruction with a deep inferior epigastric perforator flap. This noninvasive and noncontact technique for indirect monitoring…
Autologous breast reconstruction is commonly performed after mastectomy and provides a natural replacement that mimics the native breast. Although current free flap success rates exceed 95%, total flap loss can…
Fluorescent angiography is a simple and effective real-time tool for measurement of tissue perfusion both in and out of the operating room. It has multiple uses including: (1) identifying perforating…
Identifying the position, course, and caliber of the dominant perforator is extremely valuable in the preoperative study for perforator surgery. Besides reliability, the ideal technique should offer low cost and…
With technological advances in magnetic resonance angiography (MRA), spatial resolution of 1-mm perforating vessels can reliably be visualized and accurately located in reference to patients’ anatomic landmarks without exposing patients…
Perforator flaps are preferable for breast reconstruction after mastectomy in many patients. Preoperative imaging of the perforators and source vessels is desirable to reduce surgeon stress, limit donor and recipient…
There has been a move towards increasingly refined techniques for autologous breast reconstruction, and given the substantial inter-individual variability of perforator anatomy, the need for reliable, accurate methods of vascular…
Perforator-based free flaps rely on the appropriate dominant vessel supplying the vascular territory of the flap. Preoperative knowledge of the vascular anatomy can improve outcome and diminish surgical time. Several…
The handheld acoustic Doppler is commonly used in the setting of autologous reconstruction. Like the color duplex Doppler, it can be used preoperatively but has the advantage of being used…
