Surgical options in wound healing.

This article addresses methods of reconstruction for major acquired and traumatic soft-tissue defects in adults. The reconstructive ladder is used as a basis for discussing the various options for surgical closure. Conditions such as facial trauma, head and neck cancer, median sternotomy, sternal osteomyelitis, bronchopleural fistula, necrotizing fascitis, pressure ulcers, and degloving injuries are used as examples of reconstruction. Nursing aspects, including postoperative flap monitoring, are reviewed. Outcomes of reconstruction, including flap failure, are addressed.