The fasciocutaneous flap as an alternative solution in difficult reconstructive problems.

Fasciocutaneous flaps are available anywhere in the body, literally from head to foot. Some hair-bearing flaps, the parasternal flap, and some forearm and lower extremity flaps may be useful for coverage of soft tissue defects when a relatively simple one-stage procedure is preferred. The fasciocutaneous flaps described here are long and narrow, with a length to width ratio of up to 5:1. Although these flaps are not the ultimate solution to all reconstructive problems, they are especially useful in the treatment of burn scar contractures and chronic ulcerations such as those that result from the extravasation caused by chemotherapeutic agents. Of particular importance is the fact that the use of these flaps does not preclude the use of other flaps later, should this be necessary. Specific indications for these flaps must always be kept in mind in relation to other reconstructive alternatives.