Salvage of a free flap after late total thrombosis of the flap and revascularisation

We report a case of successful salvage of a free flap after a late total venous thrombosis. A free forearm flap was used to cover an exposed plate over the ankle. After a normal postoperative course, the patient suddenly developed a total venous thrombosis on day 11. Nevertheless the flap was salvaged completely. This event raises further questions about the revascularisation process, which is commonly thought to occur in 7-8 days.