The effects of 'delay' on the survival of experimental pedicled skin flaps

Summary There has been, until recently, little experimental evidence to support the widely used method of delayed transfer (delay). The effects of four methods and three durations of delay on the surviving length of experimental flaps have been investigated in the pig. A maximum increase of 60 per cent. was observed, and the optimal timing for transfer was about two weeks after delay. The initial raising of bipedicled flaps was most effective, and incision of the margins least effective, suggesting that the best form of delay is the one which divides most vessels short of causing necrosis.