Tissue flap reconstruction

Tissue flap reconstruction is a surgical procedure that involves the transfer of a living piece of tissue from one part of the body to another, along with the blood vessel that keeps it alive. This technique is often used in reconstructive surgery, particularly after mastectomy or to repair defects caused by injury or disease.

Types of Tissue Flap Reconstruction

There are several types of tissue flap reconstruction, including:

• Pedicle flap: This type of flap remains attached to the body at its original site, and is moved to the area of reconstruction while still attached to its original blood supply.

• Free flap: In this procedure, the tissue and its blood supply are completely detached from the original location and then reattached at the new site using microsurgery.

• Musculocutaneous flap: This type of flap includes muscle and skin, and is often used in breast reconstruction.

• Fasciocutaneous flap: This flap includes skin and the underlying fascia, but not the muscle.

Procedure

The procedure for tissue flap reconstruction varies depending on the type of flap and the area of the body being reconstructed. However, in general, the procedure involves the following steps:

1. The surgeon makes an incision in the skin to create the flap.
2. The flap is carefully shaped and positioned over the area to be reconstructed.
3. The blood vessels in the flap are connected to blood vessels in the new location using microsurgery.
4. The flap is sutured into place.

Risks and Complications

As with any surgical procedure, tissue flap reconstruction carries some risks, including:

• Infection: This can occur at the site of the flap or at the donor site.
• Bleeding: There is always a risk of bleeding during and after surgery.
• Flap failure: This can occur if the blood supply to the flap is not adequate.
• Necrosis: This is the death of tissue, which can occur if the blood supply to the flap is not adequate.

See Also

• Reconstructive surgery
• Microsurgery
• Mastectomy

Tissue flap reconstruction Resources
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