Lateral Intercostal Artery Perforator-based Reversed Thoracodorsal Artery Flap for Reconstruction of a Chronic Radiation Ulcer of the Lower Back Wall

Abstract

Flaps with adequate blood supply are the best methods for covering the radiation ulcer defect. Our report is on the use of the lateral intercostal artery perforator-based reversed thoracodorsal artery (TA) flap for treatment of a patient with a large radiation ulcer on his lower back. When the flap was elevated, we could use an infrared imaging device to confirm the location of the perforators and demonstrate the communication with the TA. The communication between the main TA and the lateral intercostal artery perforator has previously not been reported in the literature in detail. We used an indocyanine green dye and infrared imaging device to seek out the perforators and their communication. Even in a small communication, we were able to use the device to check the perforators and to elevate this flap with more assurance, without having to be concerned about further radiation exposure for the patient.