Lumbar flap in breast reconstruction: anatomical study on cadaveric material

Objective. To study topographic and anatomical features of lumbar perforator blood supply for breast reconstruction. Material and methods. The study included 20 unfixed human female cadavers (aged 63—75 years). We assessed vascular anatomy of the flap, length of the vascular pedicle and flap, width of the flap and exact location of L4 perforator on both sides. Results and conclusion. The LAP (lumbar artery perforator) flap appears to be a potentially useful option for autologous breast reconstruction, and the identified landmarks may facilitate preoperative planning. Further clinical studies are advisable to clarify parameters and evaluate clinical outcomes considering small length of vascular pedicle.