The Accuracy of Computed Tomographic Angiography for Mapping the Perforators of the Deep Inferior Epigastric Artery: A Blinded, Prospective Cohort Study

摘要: Background The deep inferior epigastric artery perforator flap is increasingly used for autologous breast reconstruction, with low donor-site morbidity cited as a major advantage of this operation. Preoperative imaging the vasculature frequently further means improving operative outcome. Computed tomographic angiography has been described preferred modality; however, its formal evaluation not in clinical setting. Methods A prospective, single-blind, cohort study was undertaken on 60 consecutive patients whom surgery had planned. Patients who did undergo procedure during period were excluded, 42 ultimately included study. All computed scans obtained at single institution. Perforators mapped both and intraoperatively using grid 4-mm squares centered umbilicus. Only perforators larger than 1 mm findings recorded by operator, all intraoperative operating surgeon. Results identified 280 patients. It highly accurate, demonstrating 279 accurately, one false-positive false-negative. Its sensitivity mapping thus 99.6 percent, positive predictive value percent. Conclusions accurate identifying artery. accuracy superior to that previous modalities role suggests usefulness technique before reconstruction.