Intraoral Reconstruction wıth Microsurgical Free Flaps

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: The authors aimed to evaluate the outcomes of free flap reconstructions performed for intraoral region in a single center.METHODS: Eleven free flaps have been performed for defects of the head and neck over a 4-year period. The patients were evaluated in terms of defects, flaps performed, complications and hospital stays.RESULTS: Seven patients were reconstructed with radial forearm free flap, one patient was reconstructed with free transverse rectus abdominis musculocutaneous flap, two patients were reconstructed with free vertical rectus abdominis musculocutaneous flap and the remaining one was reconstructed with free fibula osteomusculocutaneos flap. None of the flaps required reexploration for anastomotic thrombosis or hematoma. No flap failure occurred. We did not encounter any mortality or major morbidity. The average hospital stay was 21.1 days with a range from 11 to 25 days. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: Multidisciplinary approach should be encouraged for the reconstruction of intraoral defects. The versatility of free tissue transfers allows reconstruction of most complex defects; although it carries significant risks, including longer operative times, donor site morbidity, recipient site complications and microsurgical failure, and longer hospital stays.