Free flaps in burn reconstruction

In this paper, we present our experience of free flap reconstructions in bu rned patients. It allows the preservation of otherwise unsalvageable deep b urn injuries and secondary correction of contracted burn scars. We analyse the indications of different free flaps, according to different anatomic re gions and defects: depth and width of the loss of tissue, different colour skin, texture and thickness of the receptor area, weight-bearing or not wei ght-bearing surface. Free flap reconstructions were successful in 50 of 53 cases (94%). They provide good aesthetic and functional results with low mo rbidity both in acute deep burn injuries as in delayed reconstructions. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science Ltd and ISBI. All rights reserved.