title: Microsurgical techniques in free flap reconstruction.
abstract: Free flap reconstruction is discussed with emphasis on microsurgical technique utilized in union of blood vessels 1 mm in external diameter. Proper microsurgical instrumentation, magnification and small vessel suture technique are all of importance in achieving a successful microvascular anastomosis. Technical maneuvers employed in identifying and avoiding small vessel thrombosis are presented. Surgical techniques, as presented here, have allowed us to successfully use free flaps to reconstruct large oral cavity defects following ablative cancer operations.
mesh_terms: D001777:Blood Coagulation / Q000187:drug effects; D006801:Humans; D007264:Inguinal Canal / Q000601:surgery; D008866:Microsurgery / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods*; D016038:Skin Transplantation; D014182:Transplantation, Autologous