ABSTRACT
The negative pressure dressing is a highly effective modality for coverage and bolstering
of skin grafts in the early postoperative period. In the situation of a skin graft
over a free flap, the surgeon might be inclined to avoid this modality out of concern
that the dressing would deleteriously effect flap survival or impede flap monitoring.
This case series supports the safety of the negative pressure dressing and demonstrates
a technical modification that permits external Doppler monitoring of the flap through
the dressing. Thus, this technique provides an ideal environment for skin graft healing
while maintaining the ability to monitor the flap in a straightforward manner and
also simplifies nursing care.
KEYWORDS
Free flap - monitoring - wound VAC
REFERENCES
slhenry@seton.org
