Free omental tissue transfer for extremity coverage and revascularization

Christopher T. Maloney, David Wages, Joseph Upton, W. P.Andrew Lee

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

30 Scopus citations

Abstract

Microvascular transfer of the omentum has several unique advantages for the reconstruction and revascularization of extremity wounds. The omentum provides well-vascularized, malleable tissue for reconstruction of extensive soft-tissue defects and has a long vascular pedicle (35 to 40 cm) with sizable vessels, which reduces some of the potential technical challenges of microsurgery. It can also be used for flow-through revascularization of ischemic distal extremities. The unique properties of the omentum make it an ideal tissue for the reconstruction of difficult extremity defects, allowing simultaneous reconstruction and revascularization. Experience with six free omental tissue transfers for upper-extremity and lower-extremity reconstruction is described. Three of the cases involved distal anastomoses to take advantage of the flow-through characteristics of the flap, providing distal arterial augmentation. All flaps accomplished the reconstructive goals of wound coverage and extremity revascularization. The omentum is a valuable, often overlooked tissue for the treatment of difficult extremity wounds.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)1899-1904
Number of pages6
JournalPlastic and reconstructive surgery
Volume111
Issue number6
DOIs
StatePublished - May 2003
Externally publishedYes

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Surgery

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