Reconstructive Surgery and Skin Flaps

Question 1

what is the most common cause of healing complications?

Answer 1

tension

Question 2

what is static tension?

Answer 2

readily appreciable in relaxed tissues at closure

Question 3

how does a vertical mattress suture protect from tension?

Answer 3

with some eversion

Question 4

when should you use walking sutures?

Answer 4

when wound tension is too severe at the suture line

Question 5

what are releasing incisions?

Answer 5

incisions made parallel to original wound to reduce tension and allow for closure at a difficult site: over boney protuberance, high motion

Question 6

what does a V-Y plasty allow?

Answer 6

skin to be advanced toward the original incision

Question 7

what is the common rule of thumb for random pattern flaps in length?

Answer 7

length < 2x width

Question 8

how are advancement flaps raised?

Answer 8

parallel to lines of tension

Question 9

what is a very good technique for defects around eyes?

Answer 9

single pedicle advancement flap

Question 10

what are bipedicle advancement flaps used for?

Answer 10

cleft palate
elbow lesions

Question 11

what is an axial pattern flap based on?

Answer 11

a direct cutaneous artery