Walking interpolated flaps - history revisited

Background: Interpolated flaps such as the paramedian forehead and pedicled groin flap are considered workhorse flaps in local reconstruction. The use of an axial pattern interpolated flap for distant sites has been described in the early history of reconstructive surgery but has fallen out of vogue with the advent of microvascular surgery. In some cases, however, the patient's co-morbidities, availability of recipient vessels or other factors needed to provide microvascular reconstruction may preclude the use of a microvascular free flap. When these scenarios arise, they pose a significant reconstructive challenge to the surgeon.