Arch Hand Microsurg.  2023 Dec;28(4):296-301. 10.12790/ahm.23.0029.

The treatment of axillary hidradenitis suppurativa with a thoracodorsal artery perforator V-Y advancement flap: a case report

Affiliations
  • 1Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Jeonbuk National University Hospital, Jeonju, Korea

Abstract

Hidradenitis suppurativa, a recurrent and chronic inflammatory skin disease, presents with extensive scars and multiple abscesses. Moreover, axillary hidradenitis suppurativa could be impacted by scar contracture, which can limit arm mobility. The most reliable treatment for advanced hidradenitis suppurativa is meticulous and radical excision. Several methods exist for the reconstruction of axillary wounds after reconstruction. Skin grafts are an option, but their drawbacks include secondary contracture and poor aesthetic results. Local flaps could be useful, but also have a limited arc of rotation for larger defects. Thoracodorsal artery perforator (TDAP) flaps have been proven to be very effective as part of the armamentarium for axillary wounds. Herein, we describe the use of a TDAP flap in a V-Y advancement fashion with minimal pedicle dissection. We only dissected the perforator pedicle about 1 to 2 cm from its muscle entry point. With this maneuver, the flap could be easily moved to cover the defect without vascular compromise. We found that the TDAP flap performed in a V-Y fashion, with a propeller design, was very useful for an axillary defect over an island. This procedure was simple, easy, and time-saving.

Keyword

Hidradenitis suppurativa, Perforator flap; Axilla

Figure

  • Fig. 1. Pus discharge and pain accompanying infection in both axillary areas. (A) Anterior view. (B) Right lateral view. (C) Left lateral view.

  • Fig. 2. Intraoperative view. A thoracodorsal artery perforator flap in a 21-year-old man. (A) Excision of the affected tissue in the right axillary area. (B) Excision of the affected tissue in the left axillary area. (C) Skin and soft tissue defect in the right axillary area. (D) Skin and soft tissue defect in the left axillary area. (E) Immediate postoperative images in the right axillary area. (F) Immediate postoperative images in the left axillary area.

  • Fig. 3. Results 6 weeks after the surgery. (A) Right axillary area. (B) Left axillary area.


Reference

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