Free flap transfer with microvascular anastomosis

The development of the flap transfer technique in plastic and reconstructive surgery has evolved to the stage where free transplantation of a full-thickness skin flap, by means of microvascular anastomosis, has become posssible. For the first time in South Africa, a case is documented where such a free graft was used successfully to reconstruct a severe burn contracture of the neck. Experience with this and subsequent cases has taught valuable lessons about the procedure.