Microvascular reconstruction is a highly specialized surgical technique used to repair complex defects by transferring tissue from one part of the body to another. The transferred tissue, known as a "free flap," includes skin, muscle, bone, or fat and is reconnected to blood vessels using a microscope to restore circulation. This technique is especially useful for head and neck, breast, and limb reconstruction after trauma, cancer removal, or congenital deformities.
Microvascular Reconstruction
Overview and Symptoms
Overview and Symptoms
- Used to reconstruct complex tissue defects after cancer surgery, trauma, or congenital issues.
- Free tissue flaps are reconnected to blood vessels under a microscope to ensure viability.
- Often used in head and neck, breast, and extremity reconstructions.
- Symptoms it addresses include significant tissue loss, impaired function, and aesthetic deformity.
Treatment
- Surgical planning includes imaging and mapping of donor and recipient vessels.
- Donor tissue (e.g., fibula, radial forearm, thigh) is harvested with its blood vessels.
- Microsurgical anastomosis is performed to connect arteries and veins.
- Post-operative care includes close monitoring of flap blood flow and physical therapy.
- High success rates when performed by trained microvascular surgeons.