Microvascular surgery is a subspeciality of microsurgery and involves highly specialized skill. Using an array of microsurgical techniques, Penn microvascular surgeons are able to restore form and function for head and neck reconstruction patients.
Microvascular reconstruction includes grafting tissue, bone and muscle; reconnecting or replacing major blood vessels; and repairing nerves with the goal of optimizing function. Defects can be addressed using tissue transfers (free flap), where Penn head and neck reconstructive surgeons take living tissue from a distant site in the patient's body or use all allograft and transfer it to correct the affected area.
Microvascular surgery can be used all over the body. At Penn, our surgeons work with patients to find safe and creative ways for microsurgery to restore appearance and function.