Temporary arteriovenous shunt prior to free myoosseous flap transfer.

The use of temporary arteriovenous shunt constructed in the lower extremity prior to a free microvascular transfer of an internal oblique/iliac crest flap, is described. The indications for the technique are presented. Conventional free flap transfer may require maturation of a suitable inflow source or outflow conduit, which is provided by a temporary shunt, subsequently used for recipient vessels. The two-stage procedure is applicable when local vessels are inadequate for immediate transfer.