Intermediate
Technical
IVT
skin paddle
Portion of skin included with a tissue flap to monitor circulation and provide external coverage.
Full Definition
A skin paddle is the cutaneous component of a flap that is harvested along with deeper tissues such as muscle, fat, or fascia. In reconstructive surgery, the skin paddle serves multiple purposes including flap monitoring, external coverage, and aesthetic restoration. The size and design of the skin paddle must be carefully planned to ensure adequate blood supply while providing sufficient tissue for reconstruction. In breast reconstruction, skin paddles may be used to replace mastectomy skin deficits or to provide additional coverage for implant-based reconstructions.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from skin graft which lacks intrinsic blood supply.
In Context
- "The latissimus dorsi flap included a small skin paddle for external monitoring of flap viability." — Operative report
- "Design of the skin paddle was modified to optimize the aesthetic outcome while maintaining blood supply." — Preoperative planning note
Also known as
cutaneous paddle
skin island
Don't confuse with
fasciocutaneous flap
skin graft