Introduction Whereas in the past, reconstructive microsurgery mainly consisted of defect coverage by free tissue transfer, today this technique allows a continual integration of improved aesthetic appearance and functional reconstruction. Thus, the main goal of functional reconstructive surgery is to…
Introduction In this chapter we present the topic of reconstruction of soft tissue and bone defects in the lower extremity. We present the multiple indications for lower extremity reconstruction and review the decision-making process for proceeding with limb amputation versus…
Introduction The surgical management of adult brachial plexus injury (A-BPI) reconstruction has evolved substantially over the last century. The advancement of the operative microscope and surgical loupe magnification, micro-instruments and stitches, nerve stimulators, chemistry, molecular biology, and pharmacology has enabled…
Introduction The many specialized structures of the hand and upper extremity work in intimate synchrony to provide a harmonious interplay of precision motor biomechanics with fine tactile senses. Our hands are subject to many common occupational and domestic injuries, including…
Introduction Perineal and urogenital reconstruction has particular challenges due to the anatomic and functional complexity and differences between the male and female genitalia. Furthermore, genital defects and abnormalities are associated with psychological and social implications, which must be considered by…
Introduction The need for soft tissue coverage in abdominal wall reconstruction implies a lack of tissue beyond the availability of local tissue to be recruited to resurface the defect. As the majority of abdominal wall defects can be reconstructed with…
Introduction The structure of the chest and back serves multiple functions that are important to be aware of and maintain during reconstruction. The chest and back protect the vital heart, lungs, great vessels, and spine, and provide a pressure environment…
Introduction Autologous options for breast reconstruction have greatly expanded since the initial descriptions of the latissimus dorsi musculocutaneous flap and the transverse rectus abdominis musculocutaneous (TRAM) flap. In many ways, these two flaps have provided the cornerstone for many of…
Introduction and Historic Review Facial paralysis (FP) is a devastating condition which strips the human face from all emotional expressivity, leading to severe consequences in the quality of life, interpersonal communication, and psychological development of the afflicted patient ( Fig.…
Introduction The head and neck is a unique anatomic region of the human body with specialized function. The sophisticated arrangement of multiple tissue types comprises unique physical traits from individual to individual. Regions of the head, face, and neck are…