title: Irreplaceable free flaps in reconstructive surgery--part I.
abstract: Free flaps are increasingly being chosen to solve complex reconstruction problems. We describe a fascial sleeve approach to elevation of the donor flap which increases its safety and reliability. We report examples in which resultant revascularization of the recipient site causes the free flap to be irreplaceable for solving the particular clinical problem.
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D001134:Arm Injuries / Q000601:surgery; D001415:Back; D005206:Fascia Lata / Q000637:transplantation; D018219:Histiocytoma, Benign Fibrous / Q000601:surgery; D006801:Humans; D007869:Leg Injuries / Q000601:surgery; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009132:Muscles / Q000637:transplantation; D010019:Osteomyelitis / Q000628:therapy; D012878:Skin Neoplasms / Q000601:surgery; D016038:Skin Transplantation; D013524:Surgical Flaps