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Microsurgical reconstruction: experience with free fascia flaps
1Section of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905.
Annals of Plastic Surgery
|July 1, 1991
Summary
Free fascia flaps offer thin, pliable, vascular tissue for microsurgical reconstruction. The serratus anterior fascia flap is a reliable option for durable coverage with minimal donor site complications.
Area of Science:
- Plastic Surgery
- Microsurgery
- Reconstructive Surgery
Background:
- Microsurgical reconstruction frequently utilizes free fascia flaps due to their thin, pliable, and vascular properties.
- Ongoing research aims to identify optimal donor sites and enhance the reliability of these fascial flaps.
Observation:
- Microfil injections demonstrated the feasibility of using the fascia overlying the serratus anterior muscle as a free flap, based on the thoracodorsal artery.
- This specific flap was successfully employed in four patients with distal extremity wounds, experiencing one instance of venous thrombosis.
Findings:
- Free fascia flaps from various donor sites were used in nine patients for reconstructions in the head and neck, hand, and extremities, yielding excellent outcomes.
- The skin-grafted free fascial flap provides durable coverage with minimal donor site morbidity when thin, well-vascularized tissue is needed.
Implications:
- The serratus anterior fascia flap represents a valuable addition to the reconstructive surgeon's armamentarium.
- This technique offers a reliable solution for defects requiring thin, vascularized tissue, minimizing donor site morbidity.