Thin Profunda Artery Perforator Flap for Hand and Upper Extremity Coverage

Abstract

The profunda artery perforator (PAP) flap provides a good option for hand and upper extremity reconstruction. The reliable quality, caliber, and number of perforators in the posteromedial thigh support large flaps with long pedicles. The PAP flap has been widely used for breast reconstruction, although its use in the extremities has been slower to catch on due to the bulk and thickness of the subcutaneous tissue. The authors discuss evolution of thin flaps and our application of the thin and superthin PAP flap for upper extremity reconstruction.

Keywords: Free flap; Hand; PAP flap; Profunda artery perforator flap,; Soft tissue coverage; Thin PAP flap; Upper extremity.