Single versus dual venous anastomosis in radial forearm free flaps in head and neck reconstruction

Abstract

A retrospective cohort study of 253 radial forearm free flap (RFFF) procedures in head and neck reconstruction performed in our department between 2005 and 2018 was reviewed. In order to explore the effects between single and dual anastomoses, we applied Fisher’s exact test for statistical analysis. Although no flap failure was identified, more venous compromises were observed in single anastomosis group (5/80 vs. 1/173). We conclude that dual venous anastomoses can reduce venous compromise resulted from unexpected causes in RFFF transfer. Therefore, we especially recommend dual venous anastomoses for those who cannot withstand a second surgery.