Musculocutaneous flaps: principles.

Several aspects must be considered in the performance of muscle and musculocutaneous flaps. Some of the most important are not at all related to the technical elevation and manipulation of the individual flap. It is hoped that this brief outline will prove beneficial to many successful future reconstructive applications of these flaps. Never before has the discerning reconstructive surgeon been required to consider so many ingenious options and apply them with such perception. Certainly, the future of reconstructive surgery is secure if we respond reasonably and knowledgeably.