In a delayed flap procedure, when is the graft typically ready to be mobilized?

• A. 7 days
• B. 14 days
• C. 21 days
• D. 28 days

Answer: (B)

The idea being tested is when the flap has developed enough new blood supply to be safely moved. In a delayed flap, you first prepare the tissue bed and partially elevate the flap to stimulate blood vessels to grow from the underlying bed into the flap. This delay phenomenon makes the flap more reliable once it’s finally transferred.

Typically, about two weeks (14 days) is when the vascular beds have matured enough for mobilization. By day 14, neovascular connections are usually robust enough to sustain the flap with a low risk of ischemia, balancing safety with avoiding unnecessary waiting. Waiting shorter (around 7 days) risks insufficient perfusion, while waiting much longer (21–28 days) can delay coverage and increase stiffness and scarring without adding meaningful benefit in most cases. So the standard timing is around 14 days, though exact timing can vary with flap type and patient factors.