Free Flap Reconstruction of the Lower Back and Posterior Pelvis: Indications, Principles, and Techniques

Gerald D. Harris; Victor L. Lewis; Daniel J. Nagle; Ronald J. Edelson; Paul S. Kim

doi:10.1055/s-2007-1006916

Journal of Reconstructive Microsurgery, Table of Contents

J Reconstr Microsurg 1988; 4(3): 169-178
DOI: 10.1055/s-2007-1006916

ORIGINAL ARTICLE

Free Flap Reconstruction of the Lower Back and Posterior Pelvis: Indications, Principles, and Techniques

Gerald D. Harris, Victor L. Lewis, Daniel J. Nagle, Ronald J. Edelson, Paul S. Kim

Divisions of Plastic Surgery, Northwestern Memorial Hospital, Northwestern University Medical School, Chicago, Illinois, and Brandywine Hospital, Coatesville, Pennsylvania

Abstract

ABSTRACT

Reconstructive microsurgery can be successfully applied to major defects of the lower back and posterior pelvis. When present, the superior and inferior gluteal vessels can be excellent free flap recipient vessels. However, if they are absent as a result of trauma or tumor ablation, a wrist carrier can be used to transfer large blocks of tissue in a staged procedure. Five patients are presented with challenging defects for which these techniques were used.

Full Text