Heckler F R, Dibbell D G, McCraw J B
Plast Reconstr Surg. 1977 Dec;60(6):902-8. doi: 10.1097/00006534-197712000-00010.
Sickle cell disease presents an unusual challenge to the reconstructive surgeon. The interaction between the underlying hemoglobinopathy and the circulatory mechanics in pedicled flaps leads to a high incidence of flap necrosis in patients with this disease. We present 3 patients with sickle cell disease in whom the use of axial flaps allowed the repair of difficult reconstructive problems in one stage, without preoperative exchange transfusions. The rationale for this approach is discussed.
