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perforator

perforator

8.7
A blood vessel that passes through tissue to connect other vessels
  • noun
  • /ˈpɜrfəˌreɪtər/
  • Specialized
translation icon : vena perforante
  • Selecting the perforator to carry the DIEP flap can be a challenge.
  • perforator flap
  • epigastric perforator
  • inferior epigastric perforator

Examples

  • Perforator flaps offer several distinct advantages over muscle and musculocutaneous flaps that were noted in this series.

    Academic text (2005)
  • We detail our successful experience with perforator flaps from the abdomen and thoracic region in the reconstruction of complex head and neck defects.

    Academic text (2005)
  • Because of this marked difference, perforator flaps can facilitate the detection of early tumor recurrence.

    Academic text (2005)
  • In smokers, the vasospasm can be profound and may seriously affect the surgeon's ability to select the appropriate perforator.

    Academic text (2005)
  • We have found that perforator flaps can also facilitate postoperative oncologic follow-up.

    Academic text (2005)
  • Recently, perforator flaps have been used to reduce postoperative pain, shorten hospital stays, and lessen donor-site complications.

    Academic text (2005)
  • In other reconstructive disciplines, perforator-based flaps have allowed surgeons to provide vascularized tissue transfers while minimizing donor-site morbidity.

    Academic text (2005)
  • Surgeons often select the most suitable perforator to ensure a successful tissue transfer during reconstructive procedures.

  • The doctor noted that each perforator must be carefully examined to prevent complications during surgery.

  • Using the correct perforator can greatly enhance the healing process after complex surgeries.

Synonyms

perforating vein
vsperforator
  • Specialized
6.8

A vein that passes through deep tissue to connect surface veins with deep veins in the leg

is a general structure that passes through or pierces body tissue
vena perforantis
vsperforator
  • Specialized
9.9

A vein that drains blood from leg muscles into a deep thigh vein

is a tissue-piercing structure in general, not a specific muscle-draining vein
tunneler
vsperforator
  • Specialized
8.8

A medical tool used to make a path under the skin for a catheter or graft

is a bodily structure that passes through tissue rather than an external instrument
piercer
vsperforator
5.6

A sharp tool for making holes in materials like leather or paper

is an internal structure that pierces living tissue, not a general hole-making tool

Surface Forms

perforator singular
perforators plural

Morphology

perforator = perforate (semi-transparent) = perforate + or

Formation is agentive ('one that perforates'), but the medical/anatomical use is a specialized extension that may not be obvious to general learners.

Etymology

Perforator also comes from the Latin parts per- 'through' and forare 'to pierce', the same root as perforate. In medicine, a perforator is a small vessel or structure that 'goes through' or 'pierces' tissue to carry blood, which is why doctors use the same word.