Utilizing Colour Doppler Ultrasound for the Mapping of Internal and Lateral Anterior Intercostal Artery Perforator Flaps: A Study on the Relationship Between Preoperative Imaging and Intraoperative Observations in Oncoplastic Breast Surgery - Summary - MDSpire

Utilizing Colour Doppler Ultrasound for the Mapping of Internal and Lateral Anterior Intercostal Artery Perforator Flaps: A Study on the Relationship Between Preoperative Imaging and Intraoperative Observations in Oncoplastic Breast Surgery

  • By

  • Georg Schmidt

  • Theresa Mayo

  • Angela von Falkenhausen

  • Marion Kiechle

  • Daniel Müller

  • April 9, 2026

  • 0 min

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Objective:

To systematically correlate preoperative CDUS-based localisation and qualitative vessel assessment with intraoperative findings of the vascular pedicle in oncoplastic breast surgery, enhancing surgical planning.

Key Findings:
  • CDUS enabled reproducible identification and localisation of anterior chest wall perforators, crucial for surgical success.
  • The study established a structured correlation between preoperative imaging and intraoperative findings, enhancing surgical reliability.
  • No flap losses were reported in the study, indicating the effectiveness of the method.
Interpretation:

The standardisation of pre- and intraoperative imaging using CDUS may enhance surgical planning and reduce operative uncertainty, potentially increasing the adoption of chest wall perforator flaps in clinical practice.

Limitations:
  • Single-operator design may limit generalizability of findings, as results may not be applicable across different surgical teams.
  • Does not allow assessment of interobserver reliability, which could affect the reproducibility of the findings.
Conclusion:

The study supports the use of CDUS as a reliable and effective method for perforator mapping in oncoplastic breast surgery, promoting better surgical outcomes and adapting to evolving surgical techniques.

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