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The saphenous neurovascular free flap
Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
|June 1, 1981
Summary
A novel saphenous flap from the medial knee offers a thin, large flap with a long pedicle and reliable nerve supply for reconstructive surgery. Donor site closure often requires skin grafting, representing its main drawback.
Area of Science:
- Plastic Surgery
- Anatomy
- Reconstructive Surgery
Background:
- Free flap and pedicled flap techniques are crucial in reconstructive surgery.
- Identifying new, reliable donor sites is essential for improving surgical outcomes.
- The medial knee region presents an unexplored area for flap harvesting.
Observation:
- A new neurovascular flap donor site is described on the medial side of the knee.
- The flap is supplied by the saphenous artery and drained by the long saphenous vein and venae comitantes.
- Nerve supply is derived from the medial femoral cutaneous and saphenous nerves.
Findings:
- The saphenous flap is thin, possesses a long vascular pedicle (up to 15 cm), and has a dependable nerve supply.
- The flap can be harvested in considerable size.
- The primary limitation is the donor wound, frequently necessitating grafting.
Implications:
- This flap provides a valuable new option for free and pedicled flap reconstruction.
- Its characteristics make it suitable for various reconstructive challenges in the lower extremity.
- Further clinical experience will define its broader role in plastic and reconstructive surgery.