Fluorescent Angiography for Flap Planning and Monitoring in Reconstructive Surgery

Reconstructive surgery has for objective to restore anatomical defects using flaps. We tested fluorescent angiography in reconstructive surgery using the Fluobeam™ device for flap planning and monitoring. A cadaveric study allowed validating the ergonomics to transfer this technology for clinical trials. A clinical study validated the relevance of fluorescent angiography for perforator flap planning. We compared it with the surgical dissection and with routine investigation. The same technology was also used for flap monitoring. Fluorescent angiography clearly identified flap complication (thrombosis) earlier than clinical assessment. Fluorescent angiography seems to be a good tool for flap planning and monitoring.