Background: The rotation flap is a classic method of tissue rearrangement. It is a simple yet effective tool for recruiting tissue from areas of laxity and redirecting vectors of tension to reconstruct wounds not amenable to primary closure.
Objective: This article presents the basic design principles and specific applications of the rotation flap in dermatologic surgery.
Methods: A Medline search of articles describing rotation flaps published prior to April 1, 2015 was performed, and several prominent texts in dermatologic surgery were reviewed.
Results: Information gathered from the above sources is combined with the clinical experience of the author and editors to present surgeons with a guide for planning and executing various rotation flaps.
Conclusions: Mastering the technique of the rotation flap will allow a surgeon to repair a wide variety of cutaneous defects.