About

This is an intensive one-day training programme designed to provide early- and middle-stage registrars (ST3 to ST6) and equivalent-level plastic surgeons with practical, hands-on experience in raising a comprehensive range of local, regional, and free flaps. The course is delivered using unembalmed fresh frozen cadaveric specimens, which offer soft, pliable tissue ideal for accurate simulation of live operative conditions and refined tissue handling.

Prior to the practical component, the attendees will be required to attend a virtual session (held via Zoom) on the evening (1830-2100 hours) of Thursday 24^th July. This theoretical session will introduce the vascular anatomy, surgical indications, planning considerations, flap design, contraindications, and technical principles for each flap.

On the day of the course, participants will work in small, closely supervised groups under the direct guidance of experienced consultants. A high faculty-to-trainee ratio ensures detailed, personalised instruction throughout. Delegates will be exposed to or raise a number of flaps, including, but not limited to, cross-finger flap, Foucher flap, Quaba flap, Becker flap, rhomboid flap, keystone flap, bilobed flap, radial forearm flap, posterior interosseous flap, lateral arm flap, groin flap, hypogastric flap, anterolateral thigh (ALT) flap, gracilis flap, latissimus dorsi flap, free fibula flap, and some common facial flaps.

Each flap will be approached through guided marking, elevation, pedicle dissection, and identification of anatomical landmarks. Emphasis will be placed on safe dissection techniques, avoidance of common pitfalls, and the intraoperative decision-making process required to manage anatomical variation and surgical challenges.

This course offers an exceptional opportunity to consolidate anatomical knowledge and improve operative dexterity within a safe, supportive, and closely mentored environment. By the end of the session, the trainee will have significantly advanced his/her technical competence and confidence in flap surgery, supporting his/her progression towards independent operating.

The course is aligned with ISCP learning outcomes and offers excellent value for money, particularly given the limited availability of fresh frozen cadaveric material in UK surgical training. A certificate of completion will be provided for portfolio inclusion and appraisal documentation.

Learning Objectives:

By the end of this course, the trainee will be able to:

• describe the anatomical basis, vascular supply, and indications for a range of local, regional, and free flaps used in plastic surgery.
• demonstrate the correct pre-operative markings, planning considerations, and safe dissection techniques for each flap.
• raise flaps independently on fresh frozen cadavers, with careful preservation of neurovascular pedicles and attention to flap dimensions and donor site closure.
• identify common intraoperative pitfalls and anatomical variations, and implement practical solutions to optimise outcomes.
• reflect on his/her own performance, integrating feedback and anatomical learning into his/her future operative practice.

Target Audience:

• Plastic Surgery Registrars (ST3–ST6) or equivalent-level Plastic Surgeons
• Experienced Orthopaedic Registrars interested in orthoplastic reconstruction

Course Duration:

One-Day In-Person Course with Pre-Course Virtual Theory Session