Quantitative evaluation of the effects of gravity and dependency on microvascular tissue transfer to the lower limb, with clinical applications.

The authors have attempted quantitatively to evaluate the effects of gravity and dependency on free-tissue transfers to the lower limb, particularly in the immediate postoperative period, using the diagnostic modalities of Doppler ultrasonography and interstitial compartment pressure measurements. Results of these quantitative evaluations promoted a change in postoperative management among patients undergoing lower-limb tissue transfer. The experience in two patient cohorts is presented.