Monitoring lymphatic reconstitution in free latissimus dorsi flap for lower extremity defects repair in pediatric patients: a case series.

ABSTRACT:

Background

The circulation in free flap is mainly studied on blood perfusion, but lack of exploring contributory factor of lymphatic drainage. This study aimed to monitor lymphatic reconstitution of free latissimus dorsi (LD) flaps for lower extremity defects repair, using indocyanine green (ICG) lymphography and assessing its relationship with post-operative flap edema.

Methods

Patients who underwent lower extremity defects repair with free LD flap between January 2021 and April 2024 were included. The inclusion criteria were as follow: (I) lower extremity defects; (II) wound repaired by free LD flap; (III) more than 6 months of follow-up. ICG lymphography was performed to monitor lymphatic reconstitution at different timepoints (postoperative 3^rd day, 7^th</

SUBMITTER: Han T 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11621886 | biostudies-literature | 2024 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature