Evaluation of the Donor Site Morbidity Following Harvesting of Thoracodorsal Artery Perforator Flap

Background: The use of the thoracodorsal artery perforator(TAP) flap preserves the latissimus dorsi (LD) muscle and,Hence, reduces donor site morbidity and complications.Objective: In this study, we evaluate the donor site morbidityof the TAP flap regarding aesthetic and functional aspects.Methods: In this study, we evaluated the resulting aestheticand functional consequences of the harvest of the thoracodorsalartery perforator flap. This included postoperative donorsite complications. The shoulder function was evaluated 3-6months post-operatively by the QUICKDASH scale. The donorsite scar quality and related problems were assessed six monthspost-operatively by using three scar scoring systems (the patientscar assessment scale, observer scar assessment scale, andthe Vancouver Scar Scale).Results: Minimal donor site complications were reportedWith three cases of wound dehiscenc,e two of them managedConservatively, one case of wound infection and one case ofseroma. We used three scar assessment scores, which showedGood scar quality except for the cases where skin graft was usedto cover the donor site when its width exceeded 10cm. Regardingfunctional outcome, we found normal shoulder movementsExcept for the early limitation of abduction and forward elevationthat were improved with time.Conclusion: The use TAP flap reduces donor site complicationsand morbidity, and should be used when feasible as anAlternative to the LD musculocutaneous flap.