Christopher Glenn Wallace1, Huang-Kai Kao, Seng-Feng Jeng, Fu-Chan Wei. 1. Taipei and Kaohsiong, Taiwan From the Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Medical College, Chang Gung University, and Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Kaohsiong.
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Technical advancements and increased experience with perforator flap techniques have allowed the harvest of flaps in a free-style manner. METHODS: To perform free or local island pedicled flaps using the free-style concept, one requires mature skills in retrograde dissection of vascular pedicles and in using a hand-held Doppler device. To keep the technique safe, certain principles should be remembered and are detailed in this article. RESULTS: The free-style flap concept provides unparalleled freedom when choosing local or distant soft tissues for reconstructing a defect. CONCLUSIONS: Potential pitfalls during free-style flap harvest can be avoided if the presented principles are adhered to. Newer imaging modalities may prove useful for assessing vessels supplying any cutaneous territory.
BACKGROUND: Technical advancements and increased experience with perforator flap techniques have allowed the harvest of flaps in a free-style manner. METHODS: To perform free or local island pedicled flaps using the free-style concept, one requires mature skills in retrograde dissection of vascular pedicles and in using a hand-held Doppler device. To keep the technique safe, certain principles should be remembered and are detailed in this article. RESULTS: The free-style flap concept provides unparalleled freedom when choosing local or distant soft tissues for reconstructing a defect. CONCLUSIONS: Potential pitfalls during free-style flap harvest can be avoided if the presented principles are adhered to. Newer imaging modalities may prove useful for assessing vessels supplying any cutaneous territory.