Commitment to function: microsurgical flaps.

Abstract

Microsurgical procedures facilitate the optimal function of patients and provide for an enhanced quality of life. The contribution of this procedure to the eventual positive outcome of multiple patient populations is clear. Therefore, competence in the care of this emerging patient population is essential for the plastic surgical nurse. This article has outlined the history of free flaps, flap anatomy and physiology, evaluation of flap vascularity, and postoperative nursing care. Further work needs to be performed in order to definitively describe nursing and medical interventions, delineate effective wound management techniques, and develop monitoring devices that will augment the success of the free flap procedure.