Journal of physiology and pharmacology : an official journal of the Polish Physiological Society
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J. Physiol. Pharmacol. · Nov 2008
Free DIEP-flap reconstruction of tumour related defects in head and neck.
The free deep inferior epigastric perforator flap (DIEP) is a well-established therapy for plastic reconstruction of the breast or defects of the lower extremity without distinct donor site morbidity. Because of its particular qualities we started to apply the DIEP-flap also in reconstruction of defects in the cranio-maxillofacial area. A series of 10 consecutive patients, who received a DIEP-flap for reconstruction of large soft tissue defects after ablative tumour surgery, was reviewed. ⋯ In our experience the DIEP may serve as a well considerable alternative to the rectus abdominis flap and the latissimus dorsi flap for bridging extensive reconstructions in the cranio-maxillofacial region. It offers the possibility for flap elevation simultaneously to the surgical procedures in the head and neck area. A special advantage of the DIEP-flap is the very low donor site morbidity.