Scout Vein Graft – An intraoperative technique to assess the suitability of atherosclerotic donor arteries for free flap reconstruction

Free flap reconstruction of diabetic foot and its salvage is becoming more common. The combination of diabetes mellitus, post-infective lower extremity wounds, and peripheral vascular disease leads to a confluence of perilous factors, putting both limb and life at risk.1 The initial step in microvascular reconstruction is to assess the suitability of the donor artery, which is done clinically by palpating peripheral pulses, preoperatively with vascular imaging, and intraoperatively by examining the vessel characteristics and pulsatility of the donor artery.
Source: Journal of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery - Category: Cosmetic Surgery Authors: Source Type: research