Free flap procedure involves transferring a flap made up of tissues, muscles, fat or bone (or all of them together), from one body part (donor site) to another body part (recipient side). Surgeons als.....
Free flap procedure involves transferring a flap made up of tissues, muscles, fat or bone (or all of them together), from one body part (donor site) to another body part (recipient side). Surgeons also attach some veins and arteries so that the flap can maintain its own blood supply.
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Steps to take before the procedure
Preparation of the surgery includes the analysis of the donor site and the recipient site. Clinical assessment of the patient health is also very important during this stage.
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What happens during the procedure?
The free flap surgery starts with a dose of anaesthesia to the patient. Anaesthesia is an important component in the surgery as it helps to control the blood flow. Changes in blood flow can significantly alter the effectiveness of the surgery and might influence the amount of blood flow in the flap. After initial dissection of the donor site, the flap is lifted and blood vessels are clamped. The free flap is then transferred to the recipient site, carefully aligning the veins and arteries.
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After the procedure
You may have to rest for a few days before the wound completely heals, and the flap begins to function like any other body part. Patients are advised to protect the wound and flap from germs, as infection in the area will affect its functioning. It is very important to soak up any fluid leak from the wound. Keep the dressing clean and do not let it get wet. The patient may take painkillers prescribed by the surgeon to ease discomfort. The patient may also need to avoid movement or exercise for a certain period.
The surgery can effectively cover many fatal wounds, but as any other surgery, it also has a few risks associated with it.
The advantages of Free Flap Procedure are:
The coverage achieved by free flap surgery is very stable, and there are very few chances of breakage or damage to the flap. The chances of the donor site developing an infection or a disease are also minimal since both sites are less exposed to threats. Like any cosmetic surgery, the free flap surgery also offers positive aesthetic and functional outcomes.
The risks associated with Free Flap Procedure are:
There are certain risks involved with every surgery and cosmetic surgery is no exception. Probable risks emerge from existing medical conditions. If a person is found to have any microvascular disease, the chances of the spread of infection and germs are higher. Patients suffering from heart diseases may also face difficulties during surgery because a cardiac condition increases the chances of morbidity.
