Preexpanded Perforator Flaps of the Dorsolateral Trunk in Pediatric Patients

Abstract

Background: Contractures and broad scars of the axilla, anterior chest wall, and neck have detrimental effects on functional, physical, and psychological development of children. Perforator flaps have already been shown to be reliable options for the reconstruction of contractures, but there have been no reports demonstrating the value of preexpanded perforator flaps of the dorsolateral trunk region in the treatment of extensive contractures and scars of pediatric patients. The purpose of this study was to demonstrate these techniques by a case series formed of pediatric patients with broad scars and contractures of the anterior chest wall, axilla, neck, and breasts.