PAP flap
Also written as: PAP — Profunda Artery Perforator
Profunda artery perforator flap harvested from the posterior thigh for autologous breast reconstruction, using perforators from the profunda femoris artery.
Full Definition
The profunda artery perforator (PAP) flap is an autologous tissue transfer technique for breast reconstruction that utilizes skin and fat from the posteromedial thigh, based on perforating vessels from the profunda femoris artery. This flap offers an alternative donor site when abdominal tissue is unavailable or insufficient, providing well-vascularized tissue for natural breast reconstruction. The PAP flap is particularly advantageous for patients who have had previous abdominal surgery or lack adequate abdominal tissue for DIEP flap reconstruction.
Usage
Usage note: Always capitalize as PAP flap; distinguish from other perforator flaps by anatomical source.
In Context
- "Given the patient's previous abdominoplasty, PAP flap reconstruction was selected as the optimal autologous option." — Surgical planning notes
- "The PAP flap provides excellent tissue quality with minimal donor site morbidity compared to other thigh-based flaps." — Reconstructive surgery literature