Plast Reconstr Surg 2022 Mar;149(3):742-749
From the Division of Plastic, Reconstructive, Maxillofacial, and Oral Surgery, Duke University Medical Center; Department of Plastic Surgery, University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center; and Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center.
Summary: Vein grafts enable soft-tissue reconstruction in cases of insufficient pedicle length, a lack of nearby recipient vessels, and a wide zone of injury caused by trauma or radiation therapy. The purpose of this article is to provide a comprehensive review of vein grafts in free flap reconstruction focusing on the timing of arteriovenous loops, complications, and surgical technique. Vein graft indications, types of vein grafts, and location-specific considerations are also reviewed. Read More