For a free fibular flap, part of the fibula (calf bone) is removed with surgery, along with tissue and skin. The flap can be reattached to another part of the body. In this example, it is used to rebuild part of the jaw that was removed to treat cancer:
- (A) The flap is created by removing bone, tissue, and a piece of skin called a "paddle."
- (B) Once it is removed, the flap is cut to fit the area it will move to.
- (C) Then, the flap is moved to its new location. It is reattached after the blood vessels are connected nearby.
