A new classification of vascularized flaps in plastic and reconstructive surgery.

Advances during the last 15 years in microsurgical technique and in our understanding of vascular anatomy have led to the development of two new branches of plastic and reconstructive surgery. The first is the transfer of free composite flaps with microvascular anastomoses. The second is transposition of island flaps solely on a proximal or distal vascular bundle. Both types of operations require an adequate vascular pedicle to provide sufficient blood circulation for flap viability and survival in the recipient site.