Annals of plastic surgery
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Annals of plastic surgery · May 2016
ReviewFree Flap Monitoring Using Near-Infrared Spectroscopy: A Systemic Review.
Although free flaps have become a reliable technique, vascular occlusion remains a significant risk. Flap survival is closely linked to the time interval between the onset and surgical repair of a microvascular problem. The newly emerged near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) shows the characteristics of being noninvasive, continuous, easy to use, objective, and immediately reflective, possibly making it an ideal candidate for postoperative flap monitoring. ⋯ Near-infrared spectroscopy seems to be a highly suitable candidate for postoperative flap monitoring. Larger-scale, randomized, multicentric clinical trials are needed in the future.