SIMPLE MONITORING TECHNIQUE FOR MUSCLE FLAPS

A simple monitoring technique for the detection of postoperative arter ial flow failure in muscle flaps is described, The technique consists of isolating a musculocutaneous perforator on elevation crf a muscle f lap. This cutaneous perforator is observed for pulsation in the postop erative period, Abrupt cessation prior to 48 hours should be an indica tor for prompt clinical evaluation of the muscle flap by an experience d microsurgeon to rule out arterial thrombosis. (C) 1995 Wiley-Liss, I nc.