The viability of skin flaps
Stell, P.M.
Annals of the Royal College of Surgeons of England 59(3): 236-241
1977
ISSN/ISBN: 0035-8843 PMID: 324339 Document Number: 119279
The historical development of skin flaps is outlined, and in particular their division into two types: random, which are supplied by small musculocutaneous vessels; and axial flaps, which are supplied by named cutaneous vessels running within the flap. Experiments are described into the viability of random skin flaps, using the pig as an experimental model. These experiments confirm that random flaps should not be designed longer than their base and probably should not exceed 12.5 cm (5 in) in length.