The reliability and advantages of the sentinel vein as a microsurgical recipient vessel.

Free flaps to the scalp, calvaria, and anterior and middle cranial fossae are typically transferred to the superficial temporal artery and vein. Occasionally the superficial temporal vein is unsuitable for microvascular anastomosis. In such cases, we have had success using the sentinel vein, a perforating vein located in the anterior aspect of the deep temporal fat pad. This article describes the pertinent anatomy, our clinical experience, and the advantages of the sentinel vein as a microsurgical recipient vessel.