OP212: Pediatric free tissue transfer for oromandibular reconstruction

Abstract

Objective To analyze the reliability and feasibility of free flap transfer for ora-maxillofacial defects reconstruction in pediatric patients. Methods Thirty-one consecutive free flap transfer performed in the patients younger than 14 years old were reviewed. Data concerning the operation included defect description and site, stage and histology of tumor, flap type, recipient vessel and complications were collected and analyzed. Results The median age of the patients was 13 years old, with age ranged from 5 to 14. There were 20 males and 11 females. There were 14 patients with benign lesion, 9 patients with malignant tumor, and 8 patients with ora-maxillofacial deformities. Six kinds of free flap were used. The free fibula flap was most commonly used, followed by scapular flap, radial forearm flap, DCIA, rectus abdominis myocutaneous flap and anterolateral thigh flap. The overall success rate of the flaps was 96.8%. All the patients had good speech intelligibility and oral diet. Conclusion Free flap transfer in the paediatric patients for ora-maxillofacial defects is safe and reliable.