Name of the Procedure:

Delay of flap or sectioning of flap (division and inset); at scalp, arms, or legs
Common name(s): Flap delay surgery

Summary

Flap delay surgery is a procedure in which a segment of tissue that has been partially detached from its original location is prepped to be fully separated and then repositioned to cover a wound or defect. This process helps to encourage the development of a blood supply to the tissue before it is completely moved to its final position.

Purpose

This procedure addresses the need for adequate blood supply to tissue flaps used in reconstructive surgeries. The goals are to ensure that the flap tissue remains healthy, with good blood flow, to optimize the healing process and functionality of the reconstructed area.

Indications

• Large or complex wounds that cannot be closed with simple sutures.
• Burns, traumatic injuries, or surgical defects requiring robust soft tissue coverage.
• Prevention of flap necrosis, ensuring tissue viability before complete detachment and repositioning.

Preparation

• Pre-procedure fasting may be required.
• Medication adjustments as directed by the surgeon, particularly anticoagulants.
• Diagnostic tests might include imaging studies and blood work to assess overall health and specific conditions.

Procedure Description

1. Initial Surgery (Flap Delay):

   • Under anesthesia, the surgeon partially detaches the tissue flap, maintaining enough blood supply to keep it viable.
   • The edges of the flap are carefully separated from the surrounding tissue to encourage new blood vessels to form.

2. Secondary Surgery (Division and Inset):

   • After an appropriate delay period (usually several days to weeks), the patient returns for the completion of the procedure.
   • The flap is fully detached from the donor site.
   • The surgeon then repositions (insets) the flap onto the recipient site.
   • The flap is sutured into place, and the donor site is closed.

Duration

Each stage of the procedure typically takes 1 to 3 hours, depending on the complexity and site.

Setting

The procedure is usually performed in a hospital or an outpatient surgical center equipped for reconstructive surgery.

Personnel

• Surgeons specialized in plastic or reconstructive surgery
• Surgical nurses
• Anesthesiologists
• Operating room technicians

Risks and Complications

• Infection at the surgical site
• Bleeding or hematoma formation
• Flap necrosis (death of the flap tissue)
• Scarring and cosmetic issues
• Anesthetic complications

Benefits

• Improved viability of the tissue flap
• Enhanced healing outcomes
• Long-lasting and functional coverage of the affected area

Recovery

• Post-procedure care includes wound monitoring, dressing changes, and possibly antibiotics to prevent infection.
• Recovery time may vary from several weeks to months, with activity restrictions to avoid pressure on the flap site.
• Follow-up appointments to monitor healing and address any issues.

Alternatives

• Skin grafts: May be less complex but might not provide adequate tissue volume for large or deep defects.
• Local flap reconstruction: Less invasive but may not be suitable for extensive wounds.
• Negative Pressure Wound Therapy (NPWT): Can aid in wound healing but may not replace the need for flap surgery in large defects.

Patient Experience

During the procedure, the patient will be under anesthesia and should not feel pain. Post-procedure, some discomfort or pain is expected at both the donor and recipient sites, usually managed with prescribed pain medication. Patients may experience swelling, bruising, and limited mobility during the initial recovery period. Comfort measures like proper wound care and activity modification will aid in recovery.