Microvascular Free Flaps in Head and Neck Reconstruction [Retalios le res na Irução da Cabeça e Pescoço: Experiência Clínica]

• Type: Article in International Scientific Journal
• Date: 1998

Authors

Reis, J (Author) Other; Amarante J (Author) FMUP; Malheiro, E (Author) Other; Santa Comba, A (Author) Other; Costa-Ferreira A (Author) Other; Luz Barroso, M (Author) Other

Journal

Title: Acta Medica Portuguesa

Vol. 11 No. 12

Pages: 103-110

ISSN: 0870-399X

Publisher: Ordem dos Medicos

Indexing

Scopus - 4 Citations

Other information

Authenticus ID: P-007-81X

Abstract (EN): The reconstruction of head and neck defects, due to trauma, tumor resection or other, begins with a careful assessment of the patient and the respective defect. Ideally, it ends with the successful reconstructive procedure that optimally restores form and function to the patient. Free flaps have often been used as a last resort reconstructive option in the head and neck because of the need for added technical skill, a longer operating time and a perception of poor reliability. This study reviews our experience with forty-eight patients submitted to microvascular reconstructive procedures. Twelve different kinds of free flaps have been envolved as the preferred choice for free flap reconstruction of a specific defect of the head and neck. The latissimus dorsi flap was used for scalp and skull reconstruction, whereas the serratus anterior or rectus abdominis free flaps were used for the reconstruction of complex, defects of the middle third of the face. The radial forearm flap and the free jejunal transfer have become the preferred choices for intraoral and pharingo-esophageal reconstruction, respectively. Good results were obtained with both functional and social rehabilitation. There were three flap losses probably due to thrombosis of the microvascular anastomosis. There was no surgical mortality. The indications for each free flap are discussed.

Language: Portuguese

Type (Professor's evaluation): Scientific