Association of Cardiovascular Risk Factors with Atherosclerotic Changes in Lower-Limb Donor Arteries for Free Flap Reconstruction: A CTA-Based Multivariate Analysis

Abstract Background: The selection and condition of donor vessels are critical for successful free flap reconstruction. Key lower-limb donor-pedicle arteries include the medial and lateral circumflex femoral (MCFA, LCFA), deep femoral (DFA), superficial inferior epigastric (SIEA), and superficial circumflex iliac (SCIA) arteries. This study evaluated atherosclerotic changes in these arteries and their associations with major cardiovascular risk factors using computed tomographic angiography (CTA).

Methods

A retrospective CTA study assessed stenosis and plaque burden in five lower-limb arteries. Univariable and multivariable binary logistic GEE models evaluated factors associated with arterial stenosis.