CC BY 4.0 · Arch Plast Surg 2023; 50(04): 331-334
DOI: 10.1055/s-0043-1769619
Special Topic

The Reconstructive Toolbox


Funding None.

Abstract

Historically, the approach to any reconstructive challenge, whether intentionally or intuitively, can be seen to follow distinct guidelines that could aptly be called “reconstructive metaphors.” These have been intended to inform us as to the “what, “when” and “where” this attempt can best be achieved. Yet the “how” or means to accomplish this goal, usually also intuitively well understood, in a similar vein can now be expressed to be within our “reconstructive toolbox.” The latter will distinctly mirror our individuality and contain not only the various hardware that we deem essential, but also the means to access whatever technology we may be comfortable with. No toolbox, even if overflowing will ever be full, as potential options and the diversity they represent surely approaches infinity. But the truly excellent reconstructive surgeon will know when their toolbox is in any way lacking, and fears not remedying that deficiency even if the talents of another colleague must be sought, so as always to ensure that the patient will obtain the best appropriate treatment!

Authors' Contributions

G.G.H. is the only author and is in charge of every section of this manuscript.




Publication History

Received: 23 February 2023

Accepted: 25 April 2023

Article published online:
02 August 2023

© 2023. The Author(s). This is an open access article published by Thieme under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, permitting unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction so long as the original work is properly cited. (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/)

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