Martius flap
Pronunciation: MAR-tee-us
Surgical technique using labial fat pad tissue to reinforce urethral or vesicovaginal fistula repairs.
Full Definition
A well-vascularized tissue flap consisting of the labium majus fat pad and overlying skin, commonly used in reconstructive urogenital surgery to provide additional tissue coverage and blood supply for complex repairs. The Martius flap is particularly valuable in repairing vesicovaginal fistulas, urethrovaginal fistulas, and complex urethral reconstructions where primary repair alone may be insufficient. The flap can be harvested from either labium majus and rotated into the surgical field while maintaining its blood supply through the posterior labial vessels, significantly improving success rates in challenging cases.
Usage
Usage note: Capitalize as it's an eponymous procedure. Specify laterality (right or left Martius flap) in operative documentation.
In Context
- "Vesicovaginal fistula repair was reinforced with a well-vascularized Martius flap." — Operative technique description
- "The Martius flap provided excellent tissue coverage for the complex urethral reconstruction." — Surgical outcome report