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J Reconstr Microsurg 2012; 28(05): 301-304
DOI: 10.1055/s-0032-1311686
Thieme Medical Publishers 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.

The Reliability and Advantages of the Sentinel Vein as a Microsurgical Recipient Vessel

Steven L. Henry
1   Seton Institute of Reconstructive Plastic Surgery, University Medical Center Brackenridge and Dell Children's Medical Center of Central Texas, Austin, Texas
,
Adam B. Weinfeld
1   Seton Institute of Reconstructive Plastic Surgery, University Medical Center Brackenridge and Dell Children's Medical Center of Central Texas, Austin, Texas
,
Sanjay K. Sharma
1   Seton Institute of Reconstructive Plastic Surgery, University Medical Center Brackenridge and Dell Children's Medical Center of Central Texas, Austin, Texas
,
Timothy M. George
2   Pediatric Surgical Subspecialists, Dell Children's Medical Center of Central Texas, Austin, Texas
,
Patrick K. Kelley
1   Seton Institute of Reconstructive Plastic Surgery, University Medical Center Brackenridge and Dell Children's Medical Center of Central Texas, Austin, Texas
› Author Affiliations
Further Information

Publication History

16 August 2011

22 December 2011

Publication Date:
30 April 2012 (online)

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Abstract

Free flaps to the scalp, calvaria, and anterior and middle cranial fossae are typically transferred to the superficial temporal artery and vein. Occasionally the superficial temporal vein is unsuitable for microvascular anastomosis. In such cases, we have had success using the sentinel vein, a perforating vein located in the anterior aspect of the deep temporal fat pad. This article describes the pertinent anatomy, our clinical experience, and the advantages of the sentinel vein as a microsurgical recipient vessel.

Keywords

sentinel vein - recipient vessel - free flap
 

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