A Structured, Microsurgical Training Curriculum Improves the Outcome in Lower Extremity Reconstruction Free Flap Residency Training: The Ludwigshafen Concept

The implementation of a regularly held, microsurgical in-house training curriculum with 24-hour accessible training facility improves procedural and outcome parameters for free flaps to the lower extremity for surgical residents and is an elementary part of skills and competency training. However, risk stratification, repeated surgical exposure, expertise, and institutional infrastructures are essential and must be taken into consideration.