Pinwheel Flap
A rotation flap design utilizing multiple triangular segments arranged in a circular pattern. Provides excellent tissue redistribution for circular defects.
Full Definition
The pinwheel flap is a sophisticated reconstruction technique employing multiple triangular or trapezoidal tissue segments arranged around a central defect in a pinwheel configuration. Each segment rotates incrementally to close the central defect while distributing tension across multiple vectors. This design is particularly effective for circular defects where simple rotation would create excessive tension or dog-ears. The technique requires precise mathematical planning and is commonly used in scalp reconstruction where tissue elasticity is limited.
Usage
Usage note: Capitalize when referring to the specific surgical technique.
In Context
- "A four-segment pinwheel flap was designed to reconstruct the 3-cm scalp defect." — reconstructive surgery report
- "The pinwheel flap configuration eliminated the need for skin grafting in this complex case." — surgical case study