Free flap

Free flap is a type of reconstructive surgery where tissue is transferred from one part of the body to another. The tissue, along with its blood supply (artery and vein), is completely detached from its original location and reattached in a new area. This technique is often used in head and neck surgery, breast reconstruction, and limb salvage procedures.

Indications

Free flap surgery is indicated in cases where local tissue is insufficient or inappropriate for reconstruction. This may be due to trauma, cancer resection, or congenital defects. The goal of the procedure is to restore form and function to the affected area.

Procedure

The procedure involves the removal of a "flap" of tissue from a "donor site" and its transfer to a "recipient site". The flap is completely detached from its original blood supply and reattached to blood vessels at the recipient site using microsurgery techniques. The type of tissue used (skin, muscle, bone, etc.) and the donor site depend on the specific needs of the reconstruction.

Complications

As with any surgical procedure, free flap surgery carries risks. These include flap failure, infection, hematoma, seroma, and complications related to the donor site such as pain, scarring, and functional impairment.

See also

• Microsurgery
• Reconstructive surgery
• Breast reconstruction
• Limb salvage

References

Free flap Resources
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