The 2004 Annual Meeting (January 14-20, 2004) of OASYS_NEW

Not yet assigned to a slot - 5:00 AM

Rectus Abdominis muscle free flap harvest with minimal invasive technique

Ashoor B, Plastic Surgery, Canniesburn Hospital, Scotland, 56 Cleveden Drive, Kelvinside, Glasgow, United Kingdom and Morris R, Plastic Surgery, Derriford Hospital, Derriford Hospital, Plymouth, Plymouth, United Kingdom.

Introduction, The free Rectus Abdominis muscle flap is a popular choice for a variety of reconstructive scenarios. Morbidity of donor sites is emerging as a significant concern for plastic surgeons. Endoscopic techniques have recently been advocated by many centers , however these necessitate specialized equipment and training.

Methods, In this paper we describe our experience with the harvest of the rectus muscle by using hemi Pfannestiel incision, opening the rectus sheath along the direction of the fibers, with the help of the Tebbets light retractor the muscle dissected free from the tendinous intersection. Through the same incision the pedicle dissected, clamped and the flap transferred.

Result, 12 patients underwent rectus abdominis free flaps transfer for lower limb reconstruction, using this technique in the last five years with very good aesthetic and functional outcomes.

Conclusion, Three objectives are achieved by using this technique • Lower morbidity with very good functional outcome by using Rectus sheath sparing technique. • Superior aesthetic appearance. • Simple less demanding procedure without the complexity of the endoscopic approach.