A Cadaveric Study on Perforator Anatomy of the Medial Sural Artery Perforator Flap

Background The medial sural artery perforator (MSAP) flap was described by Cavadas et al in 2001. The aim of this study was to analyze the flap characteristics in the regional population and was planned as a cadaveric dissection study. Methods Thirty-three legs of fresh cadavers were studied for perforator characteristics, length, and origin of pedicle and skin paddle thickness. Observations were documented and analyzed. Results Seventeen right legs (51.5%) and sixteen left legs (48.5%) were studied. Twenty-five pedicles originated from popliteal artery (86.2%) and four (13.8%) from the common sural trunk. No perforators were seen in four legs. The mean number of perforators is 2 (0-6). The mean distance of perforator from midpoint of popliteal fossa was 10.7 cm (8-13 cm) and from posterior midline it was 3.2 cm. The mean size of the perforator was 1.1 +/- 0.8 mm (0.8-1.5 mm). The mean pedicle length was 9.3 +/- 1.3 cm. The mean flap thickness was 4.3 +/- 0.7 mm (3.0-5.5 mm). There was no correlation for flap or perforator characteristics with side of leg. Conclusion This study concludes that MSAP is a good flap in terms of perforator characteristics, pedicle length, and flap thickness, when a medium sized thin flap with long pedicle is needed. The location of perforator on calf varies in different population. Being a perforator flap, anatomical variability is common and should be thought of while choosing this flap.