Wednesday January 6, 2010
Omentum in the management of complex cardiothoracic surgical problems

Vascularized, pedicled tissue flaps are often used for cardiothoracic surgical problems complicated by factors that adversely affect healing, such as previous irradiation, established infection, or steroid use. Use of omentum was prophylactic to aid in the healing of closures or anastomoses considered to be at high risk for failure. Overall, omental transposition is successful in its prophylactic or therapeutic purpose. Complications of omental mobilization are rare. Omentum's unique properties render it an excellent choice of vascularized pedicle in the management of the most complex cardiothoracic surgical problems.


Omentum is highly effective in the management of complex cardiothoracic surgical problems. J Thorac Cardiovasc Surg. 2003 Mar;125(3):526-32.