Table 1 Classification of propeller flaps

Subcutaneous pedicled propeller flap

Random subcutaneous

The flap is based on a random subcutaneous pedicle. The perforators included in pedicle are not visualized or isolated. The flap rotates by 90°.

Perforator pedicled propeller flap

Skeletonized perforating vessel included

Flap is based on a perforator that decides the position of the skin island and is centered over it. The perforator is then skeletonized and freed from the fascial adhesions. The flap rotates between 90° and 180°. This type of flap is most commonly used in reconstructive surgery.

Supercharged propeller flap

Skeletonized perforating vessel with additional vein or artery, or both

If a long pedicled flap is required and the isolated perforator vessel is not providing sufficient arterial inflow or venous outflow, an extra pedicle can be anastomosed. The flap rotates between 90° and 180°.