No abstract

Background: Although Doppler imaging could be used to predict exact location of perforator, computed tomography angiography (CTA) is necessary in patients needed for reconstruction with free flap from lower extremities. A reported rare case of peronea arteria magna.Objectives: This study is to evaluate necessity of CTA as a planning tool in free flap surgery from lower extremities. Methods: 30 patients (aged 25-45 years) with mandibular benign pathology (ameloblastoma) undergoing free fibula flap for reconstruction over a period of three years were included in study. After preoperative colour Doppler showed appropriate result to harvest free fibula flap. Out of these, one case was diagnosed with peronea arteria magna in which free fibula flap could not be used and reconstruction was done with Recon plate. Results: While, Doppler imaging could be used to predict the exact location of perforator, however this gives no reliable information about size and course of vessels. But, rare diagnosis as peroneal magna could not be evaluated. Conclusion: CTA is a valuable imaging tool for the preoperative assessment of the donor-site vascular supply for lower extremity flaps. It can also reduce intraoperative dissection time and minimises surgical error in the identification of vascular anatomy.