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CC BY-NC-ND 4.0 · Indian J Plast Surg 2015; 48(01): 054-056
DOI: 10.4103/0970-0358.155270
Original Article
Association of Plastic Surgeons of India

Innovative technique: Distal venous cannulation for salvaging free flap venous thrombosis by heparinised saline irrigation

G. D. S. Kalra
Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, SMS Medical College and Hospital, Jaipur, Rajasthan, India
,
Devidutta Mohanty
Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, SMS Medical College and Hospital, Jaipur, Rajasthan, India
,
Ritesh Jain
Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, SMS Medical College and Hospital, Jaipur, Rajasthan, India
› Author Affiliations
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Publication History

Publication Date:
26 August 2019 (online)

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ABSTRACT

Introduction: Successful free tissue transfer depends on a multitude of factors, and adequate drainage of venous blood is one of the most critical part of successful free tissue transfers. Material and Methods: We report 6 cases of microvascular free flaps used for covering various defects, which developed venous congestion, that were salvaged with heparinised saline irrigation through the distal end of the congested vein by the help of an intravenous cannula. The irrigation was continued for 5 days. Results: All the flaps were successfully salvaged. Conclusion: This method has potential applications in situations for successful salvage of free tissue transfer particularly due to venous thrombosis.

KEY WORDS

Heparinised saline - salvage of congested flaps - venous obstruction in free flap
 

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