An arterialised venous flap using the long saphenous vein

Area of Science:

• Plastic Surgery
• Vascular Surgery
• Reconstructive Surgery

Background:

• Vascularized flaps are crucial for tissue reconstruction.
• Limited flap designs exist for extensive tissue defects.
• Arterialised venous flaps offer potential for enhanced viability.

Observation:

• Three cases utilized free arterialised venous flaps.
• One case incorporated an arterialised osteocutaneous venous flap, including bone.
• The long saphenous vein was used to feed the arterialised flaps.

Findings:

• Successful application of free arterialised venous flaps in reconstruction.
• Demonstrated a larger skin territory compared to previously reported flaps.
• Achieved successful incorporation of bone within an arterialised osteocutaneous venous flap, a novel approach.

Implications:

• This technique expands reconstructive options for complex defects.
• The inclusion of bone in arterialised venous flaps is a significant advancement.
• Further research may explore broader applications of these enhanced vascularised flaps.