Flap Surgery

Flap surgery is a technique used in reconstruction concerning any type of tissue that is lifted from a donor site to be moved to a recipient site. Blood supplies must be intact. This may seem similar to a skin graft. A graft does not have an intact blood supply at the recipient site. A graft therefore relies on growth of new blood vessels. Flap surgery is done to repair or fill a defect or wound from injury or prior surgery. When the remaining tissue is unable to support a graft, or rebuild more complex anatomic structures such as breast or jaw, flap surgery is implemented.

Level of complexity is one way of classifying flaps. Surgeon should choose the least complex flap that will still achieve the desired effect. This concept is known as the reconstructive ladder.

Freeing a layer of tissue and then stretching this layer to fill a defect creates what is called a local flap . This least complex type of flap includes advancement, rotation, and transposition flaps.

Advancement flaps are formed by incisions extended parallel from the wound. This creates a rectangle leaving one edge intact. The rectangle is freed from deeper tissues and stretched forward to cover the wound in a process called advancement. With the flap disconnected from the body except for the uncut edge, blood supply feeds in horizontally.

Creating a rotation flap is similar to advancement except that instead of being stretched in a straight line, the flap is arced.

Finally, the more complex transposition flap rotates adjacent tissue. This results in the creation of a new defect. Further reconstructive surgery must then be performed in order to close this new wound.

Finding the Right Healthcare Provider

You would not shop for the right health care provider based on price, you definitely should not be aiming for one who is going to charge you with the lowest rate. Instead, consider his qualifications, his expertise, his experience, his credentials so you know that he will do a fine job assisting you. If you are looking for credible surgeons begin by asking for recommendations from individuals whose opinions you trust. Here is are some other helpful tips.

Go Abroad

Be wary. Many are tempted by the price offered abroad as they can be considerably lower, but you may be giving up many rights once on foreign soil.

Budget

Consider how much you are willing to, and able to, afford. Stick to numbers easy for you to cover. Only spend within your means. Procedures are expensive, but many can be within your budget.

Consultation

Always ask for a consultation. During a consultation is a good time to ask important questions and discuss your personal needs.

Medical Assessments

Before undergoing any surgery, proper assessments must be done. Always have a complete physical done as well as making note of any medical issues.

Ask for Credentials

Where did this provider study? Where did this provider intern? What papers, certifications can be provided? Is the provider licensed? Board certified in your state? How many years has this provider been in practice?

Whatever type of surgery or procedure you are going in for, always be aware of the risks involved. Also take time to consider your recovery period and any needs you may have after the procedure is complete.