Free-Flap Reconstruction · Volume I of 5
Reconstructive Thinking
Build a defect-first framework for head and neck reconstruction by auditing tissue loss, patient factors, flap physiology, and reconstructive priorities before selecting a donor site.
Orientation
About this volume
Volume I establishes the reasoning that anchors the series before any donor site is named. It follows the anticipated resection through patient goals, oncologic context, a six-domain defect audit, tissue matching, and free-flap physiology. Residents learn to distinguish lining, cover, volume, structure, barriers, and residual dynamic function; identify how geometry, pedicle route, and contamination change the construct; and build a primary plan plus backup. Figures and tables connect defect properties to flap categories and arterial-versus-venous bedside patterns. Unlike Volume II’s donor anatomy or later operative chapters, this volume asks first what the reconstruction must accomplish. It prepares residents to present a defensible, defect-first plan on boards and in preoperative discussion.
After completing this volume, the resident should be able to
- Describe a head and neck defect by its missing lining, cover, volume, structure, barriers, and residual dynamic function.
- Translate patient factors, geometry, contamination, and pedicle needs into reconstructive priorities.
- Present a defect-first primary reconstructive plan with a reasoned backup.
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