Axial pattern flaps based on the dorsal and ventral perineal arteries: A cadaveric study in dogs and a case report.

Abstract

Objective: To describe the angiosomes of the dorsal and ventral perineal arteries in dogs and identify landmarks for axial pattern flaps based on these vessels. To describe the differences between male and female dogs regarding their respective angiosomes. To present a case report demonstrating the successful use of the dorsal perineal artery skin flap to reconstruct a perianal wound.

Study design: Anatomic study.

Animals: Eight canine cadavers: four males and four females. One clinical canine case.

Methods: Nonselective barium sulfate angiography was performed via injection of the descending aorta. Skin excised from the perineum and thighs was evaluated via gross inspection and radiography to identify angiosomes. A single clinical case utilizing the dorsal perineal artery axial pattern flap was used to reconstruct a wound in a live dog.

Results: A primary cutaneous branch of the ventral perineal artery was identified consistently in all cadavers with positive contrast radiography. The ventral perineal artery cutaneous angiosome was subjectively more robust than the dorsal perineal angiosome. A cutaneous branch of the dorsal perineal artery was observed radiographically in all specimens. The primary cutaneous angiosomes of both arteries extended at least two-thirds of the length of the caudal thigh. In the clinical case, a perineal wound was repaired successfully with a dorsal perineal artery flap.

Conclusion: The ventral and dorsal perineal arteries possessed robust cutaneous angiosomes with apparently abundant vasculature and broad coverage on the caudal thigh, which were consistent in male and female cadavers.

Clinical significance: The dorsal and ventral perineal arteries provide a rich blood supply to the skin of the caudal thigh. Axial pattern skin flaps created within these angiosomes may survive consistently.