Evaluation of the donor Site morbidity following harvesting of thoracodorsal artery perforator flap

Background: The use of thoracodorsal artery perforator (TAP) flap preserves the latissimus dorsi (LD) muscle and, hence, reduces donor site morbidity and complications. Methods: In this study we evaluated the resulting aesthetic and functional consequences of the harvest of thoracodorsal artery perforator flap. This included postoperative donor site complications. The shoulder function was evaluated 3-6 months post-operatively by the QUICKDASH scale. The donor site scar quality and related problems were assessed six months post-operatively by using three scar scoring systems (the patient scar assessment scale, observer scar assessment scale, and the Vancouver Scar Scale)Results: Minimal donor site complications were reported with three case of wound dehiscence two of them managed conservatively, one case of wound infection and one case of seroma. We used three scar assessment scores which showed good scar quality except for the cases where skin graft was used to cover the donor site when its width exceeded 10 cm. Regarding functional outcome, we found normal shoulder movements except for early limitation of abduction and forward elevation that were improved with time.Conclusion: The use TAP flap reduces donor site complications and morbidity and should be used when feasible as an alternative to LD musclocutaneous flap.