Factors influencing the necessity for preoperative vascular imaging before harvesting a vascularized fibular flap

Abstract

Objective: This study was carried out to identify groups of patients who would benefit from this angiography. The angiographic images of a random group of patients were studied; the correlations between the vascular state of the lower extremities and vessel pathology were investigated; and the possible links of these findings with certain medical conditions were explored.

Study design: Three experienced observers independently evaluated the angiograms of 185 patients. The status of all 3 vessels of the lower extremities (anterior tibial artery, posterior tibial artery, and peroneal artery) was evaluated. The patients' gender, age, drinking and smoking habits, and medical conditions were documented.

Results: We found a significant correlation between pathology of the arteries of the lower extremity and blood cholesterol level, blood pressure, coronary heart disease, diabetes mellitus, and age.

Conclusions: We suggest that preoperative vascular imaging be carried out in patients with comorbidities to reduce the potential for flap failure and to minimize donor site complications.