Preoperative Imaging for Perforator Flaps in Reconstructive Surgery A Systematic Review of the Evidence for Current Techniques

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Although preoperative imaging of perforator vasculature in planning microvascular reconstruction is commonplace, there has not been any clear demonstration of the evidence for this practice, or data comparing the many available modalities in an evidence-based approach. This article aims to provide an objective, evidence-based review of the literature on this subject. METHODS: The evidence supporting the use of various modalities of imaging was investigated by performing focused searches of the PubMed and Medline databases. The articles were ranked according to the criteria set out in March 2009 Oxford Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine definitions. Endpoints comprised objective o..