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Experience of 73 free groin flaps
D C Chuang1, S F Jeng, H T Chen
1Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chang Gung Medical College, Taipei, Taiwan, Republic of China.
British Journal of Plastic Surgery
|February 1, 1992
Summary
The free groin flap remains a reliable and versatile option for reconstructive surgery, despite past concerns. This study shows an acceptable complication rate, highlighting its continued utility.
Area of Science:
- Plastic Surgery
- Reconstructive Surgery
- Microsurgery
Background:
- The free groin flap, a reconstructive technique, has seen declining popularity due to pedicle limitations and the emergence of alternative donor sites.
- This article re-evaluates the free groin flap's efficacy and versatility.
- The study reviews 73 free groin flap procedures performed between 1985 and 1990.
Observation:
- Free groin flaps constituted 7% of all free transfers (1096 cases) at the institution.
- The overall complication rate was 8%, with three complete and three partial flap failures.
- Arterial discrepancy was identified as the primary cause of complications.
Findings:
- The complication rate of 8% is considered acceptable and lower than reported in some other studies.
- Two specialized techniques for increasing vessel diameter to mitigate pedicle disadvantages are emphasized.
- The free groin flap demonstrated reliability and versatility in the reviewed cases.
Implications:
- Despite its historical decline, the free groin flap remains a viable and valuable option for reconstructive surgery.
- The findings suggest that with specific techniques, the limitations of the free groin flap can be overcome.
- This re-evaluation supports continued consideration of the free groin flap in reconstructive procedures.