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The use of dextran post free tissue transfer.
H Ridha1, N Jallali, P E Butler
1Department of Plastic Surgery, Royal Free Hospital, Pond Street, London NW3 2QG, UK. hyder_ridha@hotmail.com
Journal of Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgery : JPRAS
|August 22, 2006
Summary
UK plastic surgeons show varied use of dextran for microsurgery thromboprophylaxis. Current practices and dextran regimens differ significantly, yet success rates for free tissue transfer and digital replants remain unaffected.
Area of Science:
- Microsurgery
- Plastic Surgery
- Thromboprophylaxis
Background:
- Dextran is utilized in microsurgery to mitigate free tissue transfer loss.
- Published regimens for dextran administration vary widely in dosage and timing.
Purpose of the Study:
- To survey current UK plastic surgeons' practices regarding dextran use in microsurgery.
- To identify variations in dextran indications, regimens, and duration.
Main Methods:
- A postal questionnaire was distributed to UK plastic surgeons.
- Data were collected from 161 surgeons across 51 units, achieving a 61% response rate.
Main Results:
- 45% of microsurgeons routinely use dextran post-operatively; 29% use alternative thromboprophylaxis.
- Significant variations exist in dextran indications, post-operative regimens, and duration.
- Free tissue transfer (97%) and digital replant (85.1%) success rates were not significantly impacted by dextran use.
Conclusions:
- There is considerable variation in thromboprophylaxis practices among UK plastic surgeons post-microsurgery.
- Dextran use does not appear to affect the success rates of free tissue transfer or digital replants.