Double Free Flap Research Articles

Comparison of reconstruction plate and double flap for reconstruction of an extensive mandibular defect

Functional reconstruction of the anterior mandibular defect in combination with a significant glossectomy is a challenging problem for reconstructive micro-surgeons. In this retrospective study, clinical results were compared between mandibular reconstruction plate (MRP) procedures and double flap transfers. The subjects were 23 patients who underwent immediate reconstruction, after an anterior segmental mandibulectomy in combination with a significant glossectomy, from 1993 to 2009. The patients were divided into two groups based on the reconstructive methods used: MRP and soft tissue free flap transfer (MRP group: 12 patients) or double free flap transfer (double flap group: 11 patients). Operative stress, postoperative complications and oral intake ability were compared between the groups. The rate of recipient-site complication in the double flap group tended to be lower than that in the MRP group. The most frequent complications in the MRP group included infection and orocutaneous fistula. Operative stresses (operation time and blood loss) were significantly less in the MRP group than in the double flap group. Overall, 19 patients (82.6%) were able to tolerate an oral diet without the need for tube feeding. This study demonstrates that laryngeal preservation is possible in more than 80% of patients even after such an extensive ablation. Double flap transfer provides a more stable wound closure than MRP and should be the preferred reconstructive procedure if the patients can tolerate the associated operative stresses.

Reconstructive indications of simultaneous double free flaps in the head and neck: A case series and literature review

Extensive and complex defects of the head and neck involving multiple anatomical and functional subunits are a reconstructive challenge. The purpose of this study is to elucidate the reconstructive indications of the use of simultaneous double free flaps in head and neck oncological surgery. This is a retrospective review of 21 consecutive cases of head and neck malignancies treated surgically with resection and reconstruction with simultaneous use of double free flaps. Nineteen of 21 patients had T4 primary tumor stage. Eleven patients had prior history of radiotherapy or chemo-radiotherapy. Forty-two free flaps were used in these patients. The predominant combination was that of free fibula osteo-cutaneous flap with free anterolateral thigh (ALT) fascio-cutaneous flap. The indications of the simultaneous use of double free flaps can be broadly classified as: (a) large oro-mandibular bone and soft tissue defects (n = 13), (b) large oro-mandibular soft tissue defects (n = 4), (c) complex skull-base defects (n = 2), and (d) dynamic total tongue reconstruction (n = 2). Flap survival rate was 95%. Median follow-up period was 11 months. Twelve patients were alive and free of disease at the end of the follow-up. Eighteen of 19 patients with oro-mandibular and glossectomy defects were able to resume an oral diet within two months while one patient remained gastrostomy dependant till his death due to disease not related to cancer. This patient had a combination of free fibula flap with free ALT flap, for an extensive oro-mandibular defect. The associated large defect involving the tongue accounted for the swallowing difficulty. Simultaneous use of double free flap aided the reconstruction in certain large complex defects after head and neck oncologic resections. Such combination permits better complex multiaxial subunit reconstruction. An algorithm for choice of flap combination for the appropriate indications is proposed.

Double free flap reconstruction of through-and-through oromandibulofacial defects

Through-and-through oromandibulofacial resection defects are extensive reconstructive challenges. These composite defects consist of five components that have to be addressed separately in order for the reconstruction to be functionally and aesthetically successful, including the oral mucosa, bone defect, external skin, potential deadspace obliteration and volume replacement. Single osteocutaneous flaps or single soft tissue free flaps inevitably lead to compromise in at least one of these areas. More recently, in the last two decades, double free flaps have been introduced as a tailored solution to this problem, allowing the comprehensive reconstruction of each separate component. We review the current evidence regarding the use of double free flaps in such defects and summarise our approach in our institute’s experience of over 130 cases. Although we consider the double free flap combination of the anterolateral thigh (ALT) flap and fibula osteoseptocutaneous flap to be the optimal reconstructive method in through-and-through oromandibulofacial defects, higher levels of evidence are required to fully justify their use in terms of complication profile, functional and aesthetic outcomes.

Two in one: Double free flap from a single free fibula osteocutaneous unit

In the past two decades, the advancement in the microsurgical techniques has revolutionised the reconstruction of post-oncological head and neck defects. Free fibula osteocutaneous flap (FFOCF) has been considered as the treatment of choice by many for mandible reconstruction. The improvement in the surgical resection and adjuvant treatment has improved the survival rates even in patients with advanced cancer. Simultaneously the reconstruction is addressed towards more functional and aesthetic aspects to improve the quality of life in these patients. In this respect, a double free flap is advocated in certain cases of extensive composite oromandibular defects (COMDs). But in our institute, we have managed two such cases of extensive COMD with a single FFOCF unit – fibula bone with a skin paddle for inner lining and a perforator-based skin paddle from the proximal part of the FFOCF unit, anastomosed separately for outer cover. Compared to two separate free flaps, this method has the advantage of single donor site and reduction in reconstruction time. Though the technique of divided paddle, deepithelisation and supercharging has been mentioned for FFOCF, no such clinical cases of two free flaps from a single FFOCF unit have been mentioned in the literature.

The scapular, parascapular, and latissimus dorsi flap as a single osteomyocutaneous flap for repair of complex oral defects

Complex composite defects of the oral cavity are often created due to en bloc resection of malignant tumors. These defects can involve bone, soft tissue, oral mucosa, and external skin, posing a reconstructive challenge to the microvascular surgeon. Though advances have been made in free tissue transfer via piggybacking techniques and double free-flaps, increases in operative time and morbidity remain limiting factors. Likewise, advancements in single composite flaps (e.g., double-skin paddle fibular free-flap) allow for a single donor site, but limit workable tissue. This report describes our experience with the scapular, parascapular, and latissimus dorsi (SPLD) as a combined single unit osteomyocutaneous flap for composite reconstruction of complex oral defects. A case example is subsequently reviewed for clinical correlation. This is an operative techniques article describing the use of the SPLD single multi-tissue flap for repair of complex oral defects. Cadaveric dissection was performed for instructional purposes. Case example was given for clinical correlation. Relevant history, anatomy, procedural details, and possible complications are presented and subsequently correlated to the case example. A SPLD free-flap as a single multi-tissue flap is a viable and beneficial option for reconstruction of complex oral defects. It provides the volume of tissue necessary to fill composite defects and exists as an alternative to multi-flap procedures, which carry a longer operative time and multiple donor site morbidity.

O99. Double free flaps enhance the resectabilty of locally advanced head and neck malignancies

O99. Double free flaps enhance the resectabilty of locally advanced head and neck malignancies

Two for the price of one: Recycling a free flap

Free flaps are now an established, successful, method of reconstruction for complex soft tissue defects. Improvements in microsurgical techniques, anatomical understanding and instruments have resulted in the evolution of free flap surgery to now encompass synchronous double free flap surgery and "free style" type flaps based on perforators. Although there have been reports of a single free flap split in two to reconstruct a defect at a single site, we report what we believe to be the first case of a single free groin flap used to reconstruct two distant and separate defects sequentially.

Reconstruction of lateral through and through oro‐mandibular defects following oncological resections

Resections of oromandibular squamous cell carcinoma involving lateral mandible, oral cavity, and the skin, lead to composite oromandibular defects that can be approached in several ways depending on the extension of the bone defect, of the soft tissue and cutaneous resection, the patient's general status and the prognosis. Purpose of the study is to evaluate retrospectively functional and esthetic outcome obtained with different reconstructive technique employed. A retrospective evaluation of 42 patients has been performed. The study population consisted of 24 males (57.1%) and 18 females (42.9%), ranging in age from 25 to 81 years (mean, 62.6 years). The primary location of the tumor was the mandibular alveolar crest (18 cases), retromolar trigon (9), floor of the mouth (8), cheek (5), and oral commissure (2). For reconstruction a single free flap technique was used eight times; a double free flap technique, seven times; free and locoregional flap association, 25 times; and a single locoregional flap and two associated locoregional flaps, one time each. Postoperative follow-up ranged from 12 to 144 months. Final results were evaluated with regards to deglutition, speech, oral competence, and esthetic outcome. When free bone-containing flaps or two free flaps technique were used, the functional results were better (normal diet, 67%-71%; good oral competence, 100%-71%; good or intelligible speech, 100%-86%). When free and locoregional flap association was chosen, the esthetic results were best (excellent, 76%; acceptable 24%; poor 0%). The worst results were obtained with the use of a single free soft tissue flap and with the use of single or double locoregional flap technique. Bone reconstruction of the lateral mandible is indicated whenever possible. In elderly or poor prognosis patients acceptable results can be achieved with free soft tissue flaps techniques. When the defect involves different structures of the oral cavity, the best results are provided by the association of two free flaps. Finally, the association of free and locoregional flaps is a good option for external coverage reconstruction.

P2.80. Simple or double free flap reconstruction in oral cancer – Iasi OMF surgery clinic experience

P2.80. Simple or double free flap reconstruction in oral cancer – Iasi OMF surgery clinic experience

Double Free-Flap Reconstruction

To investigate the increasing use of double free flaps in the reconstruction of large head and neck defects. A 5-year retrospective medical record review in a large tertiary care head and neck oncology program. Prospectively collected functional data were also analyzed. Academic research. A consecutive series of 35 patients (24 men and 11 women; mean age, 57.7 years). The use of double free flaps in the reconstruction of large head and neck defects and prospective functional outcomes. The most common indication for surgery (n = 25 [71.4%]) was squamous cell carcinoma. The most common double free-flap combination (n = 22 [62.9%]) included an osteocutaneous fibular free flap with a fasciocutaneous radial forearm free flap. Objective evaluation by naive listeners demonstrated a mean single-word intelligibility score of 66.2% and a mean sentence intelligibility score of 84.8% in this group of patients. Modified barium swallow study results revealed no evidence of laryngeal penetration for swallowing liquid consistencies in 21 patients (60.0%), pudding consistencies in 30 patients (85.7%), and cookie consistencies in 32 patients (91.4%). With proper patient selection and planning and the use of 2 surgical teams, the length of surgery and complication rates are not significantly increased in double free-flap reconstruction. Furthermore, by using 2 free flaps, the best osseous and soft-tissue elements may be independently selected, yielding appropriate tissue characteristics for ideal defect reconstruction.

Indications and Outcomes of Double Free Flaps in Head and Neck Reconstruction

Methods: A retrospective review at two tertiary referral centers was performed. Patient demographics, cancer characteristics, methods of reconstruction, and postoperative course were recorded. All patients were assessed for diet, speech, esthetics, socialization, and satisfaction using specific evaluation scales. Results: A total of 30 patients underwent double free flap reconstruction between 2001 and 2007. There were 19 men and 11 women, mean age of 62 years (range, 42-79). Comorbidities were present in 67%, and 70% smoked. Most frequently the cancer was squamous cell carcinoma (90%), in advanced stage (87%), and recurrent (67%), affecting the oral cavity (43%), larynx (23%) or pharynx (20%). The fibula osteoseptocutaneous/ radial forearm fasciocutaneous flap combination was most commonly used (n=13), followed by the jejunum-radial forearm flap (n=10). Three flaps required early anastomosis revision and only two partial flap losses were observed. In 11 cases, there was a severe recipient site complication: wound dehiscence (n=3), oral incompetence (n=4), fistula (n=2), and stenosis (n=2). Two patients died in the postoperative period due to medical problems (7%). The mean follow up was 15.3 months. Patient satisfaction was poor to moderate and the overall functional evaluation score was low.

Reconstruction of Head and Neck Cancer with Double Flaps: Comparison of Single and Double Recipient Vessels

Patients with advanced head and neck cancers require reconstruction with a double free flap, but in some situations, it is extremely difficult to attain the ideal set of recipient vessels for these patients. The patients were divided into two groups: group 1 had one recipient vessel; group 2 had two recipient vessels. Fifty-five patients were enrolled between 2001 and 2005. Double flaps, including a fibula osteoseptocutaneous flap and an anterolateral thigh flap, were used for the reconstruction. In group 1, the second flap was anastomosed at the distal runoff of the fibular flap. Group 1 contained 39 patients and group 2 had 16 patients. No significant differences in the success rate, operating time, days of hospitalization, or complication rate were noted between groups 1 and 2. Thus using one recipient vessel is our first choice for double free-flap reconstruction for head and neck defects.

Indications and outcomes of double free flaps in head and neck reconstruction

This study describes the clinical setting and operative outcomes for simultaneous double free flap treatment of extensive composite head and neck cancers. A retrospective review at two tertiary referral centers was performed. Patient demographics, cancer characteristics, reconstruction methods, and postoperative course were recorded. All patients were assessed for diet, speech, esthetics, socialization, and satisfaction using specific evaluation scales. A total of 30 patients underwent double free flap reconstruction between 2001 and 2007. There were 19 men and 11 women, mean age of 62 years (range, 42-79). Comorbidities were present in 67% of the cases and 70% smoked. Most frequently the cancer was a squamous cell carcinoma (90%), in advanced stage (87%), and recurrent (67%), affecting the oral cavity (43%), larynx (23%) or pharynx (20%). The fibula osteoseptocutaneous/radial forearm fasciocutaneous flap combination was most commonly used (n = 13), followed by the jejunum-radial forearm flap (n = 10). Three flaps required early anastomosis revision and only two partial flap losses were observed. In 11 cases, there was a severe recipient site complication: wound dehiscence (n = 3), oral incompetence (n = 4), fistula (n = 2), and stenosis (n = 2). Two patients died in the postoperative period due to medical problems (7%). The mean follow up was 15.3 months. Patient satisfaction was poor to moderate and the overall functional evaluation score was low. Double free flaps for one-stage reconstruction of extensive head and neck defects should be used in selected cases. Although a reliable procedure, immediate postoperative morbidity and mortality is high, and the long-term functional and esthetic results are modest. Realistic outcomes should be discussed with patients during planning and consent.

Use of double free flaps for locally advanced lesions of head and neck

Use of double free flaps for locally advanced lesions of head and neck

Functional and Aesthetic Outcome and Survival after Double Free Flap Reconstruction in Advanced Head and Neck Cancer Patients

Extensive composite defects in the head and neck area may require the use of double free flap reconstructions. These reconstructions are not only surgically challenging but also challenging to patients. A realistic perspective on general outcome for the patient seems important. From January of 2002 to August of 2003, double free flap reconstructions were used in 12 patients with extensive composite head and neck defects following malignant tumor (n = 7) and osteoradionecrosis (n = 5) resection. Six patients had a standardized interview, physical examination, and clinical photographs. All reconstructions were performed using an osteocutaneous fibula flap in combination with an anterolateral thigh flap (n = 8), a radial forearm flap (n = 1), or a lateral thigh flap (n = 1). The total flap survival rate was 96 percent. Mean mandibular bone defects were 10 cm. Mean skin island sizes of osteocutaneous fibula flaps were 67 cm. Mean external skin reconstruction flap sizes were 117 cm. Mean overall survival time was 20 months in patients with malignant tumors. Patients with osteoradionecrosis reconstruction survived free of disease for an average period of 38 months. Three patients (50 percent) were very satisfied, one was neutral, and two were very dissatisfied with their functional and aesthetic results. Objective evaluation of function showed mainly deteriorated speech (83 percent) and oral incontinence (67 percent). Objective evaluation of aesthetics showed mainly color mismatch (67 percent) and flap contracture of external flaps (50 percent). Reconstruction of these major composite through-and-through defects will often result in a modest functional and aesthetic outcome. Because selected patients require these procedures, the authors give information that matches with realistic expectations.

Reconstruction of Head and Neck Cancer with Double Free Flaps: Comparison between Single and Double Recipient Vessels

In mandibular and through-and-through cheek defects, double free-flap reconstructions are often needed. However, these patients have usually received previous surgery or radiotherapy, and obtaining ideal recipient vessels is extremely difficult.

Selection of recipient vessels in microsurgical free tissue reconstruction of head and neck defects

The development of microsurgical techniques has facilitated proper management of extensive head and neck defects and deformities. Bone or soft tissue can be selected to permit reconstruction with functional and aesthetic results. However, for free tissue transfer to be successful, proper selection of recipient vessels is as essential as the many other factors that affect the final result. In this article selection strategies for recipient vessels for osteocutaneous free flaps, soft tissue free flaps, previously dissected and irradiated areas, recurrent and subsequent secondary reconstructions, simultaneous double free flap transfers in reconstruction of extensive composite head and neck defects, and the selection of recipient veins are reviewed in order to provide an algorithm for the selection of recipient vessels for head and neck reconstruction.

Availability of End-to-Side Arterial Anastomosis to the External Carotid Artery Using Short-Thread Double-Needle Microsuture in Free-Flap Transfer for Head and Neck Reconstruction

We seldom have difficulties in the selection of appropriate recipient arteries for microvascular free flap transfer in the head and neck region because many sizable branches (branch artery) of the external carotid artery (ECA) or subclavian artery are available. However, we occasionally encountered the lack of an appropriate recipient artery, especially in secondary reconstruction or reconstruction following the extensive ablation of recurrent cancer. For these challenging cases, we have used end-to-side arterial anastomosis directly to the ECA. Between July 1997 and December 2004, end-to-side anastomosis of the flap artery to the ECA was employed in 16 cases. The reason for its use included the marked size discrepancy between the jejunal artery and branch artery in 4 jejunal transfer cases, the lack of 2 appropriate recipient arteries for double free flap transfers in 1 case, and the lack of an available branch artery as a recipient due to poor regional conditions in 11 cases. Fifteen of 16 flaps underwent an uneventful postoperative course, except 1 whose flap artery was pressed by the submandibular gland and sustained thrombosis 3 days postoperatively. In this case, however, the flap survived perfectly after prompt thrombectomy and reanastomosis. Eventually, all 16 flaps survived completely. We reconfirmed the availability of end-to-side anastomosis to the ECA when a suitable branch artery is not available. Although end-to-side anastomosis to the ECA is laborious compared with end-to-end anastomosis, our newly developed short-thread double-needle microsuture combined with the back-wall-first technique helps to ensure easier anastomosis. Using this device, because all stitches are carried from inside the vessel to outside, the surgeon can place the first stitch at any point on the posterior wall and advance the next suture to the preferred site of the previous suture, and suturing can be performed more safely even in cases where the tunica intima is separated from the tunica media due to arteriosclerosis, previous irradiation, or surgery.

Reconstruction of Extensive Composite Mandibular Defects with Large Lip Involvement by Using Double Free Flaps and Fascia Lata Grafts for Oral Sphincters

Extensive composite mandibular defects involving large lip defects are the most difficult to repair among head and neck reconstructions. This study presents the authors' approach using double free flaps and fascia lata grafts for oral sphincters. Ten patients were studied after ablative oral cancer surgery. Segmental defects of the mandible ranged from 6 to 14 cm. Cheek defects ranged from 9 x 6 cm to 15 x 12 cm, and intraoral defects ranged from 9 x 7 cm to 16 x 16 cm. Upper lip defects ranged from 10 percent to 50 percent, and lower lip defects ranged from 50 percent to 90 percent. A fibula osteocutaneous flap was used for reconstruction of mandibular defects and intraoral lining, and an anterolateral thigh flap was used for cheek and lip defects. Then, a sheet of fascia lata graft was used to reconstruct the oral sphincter. The tendon graft was passed into the subcutaneous layers of the reconstructed lip, woven into the remaining orbicularis oris muscle of the lip, and anchored to the upper lip near the philtral columns to complete the oral ring with adequate tension. Free flap survival was 100 percent. Complications included one patient with neck hematoma and distal anterolateral thigh flap necrosis, three patients with neck wound infection, and one patient with osteomyelitis of the mandible. All but one patient had adequate oral competence. All the patients were able to resume a soft diet. The speech ability was nearly normal for all the patients, and all the patients had gained an acceptable appearance. For extensive composite mandibular defects combined with large lip defects, immediate reconstruction with double free flaps and a fascia lata graft for oral sphincter has proved to be a useful option for better functional and cosmetic results.

Selection of Recipient Vessels in Double Free-Flap Reconstruction of Composite Head and Neck Defects

Massive defects of the head and neck regions after resection of advanced carcinoma often require two flaps for optimal reconstruction. This study focuses on the selection of proper recipient vessels. A total of 262 free-flap transfers were performed in 130 patients using the two-flap approach (one patient received two flaps twice). For microvascular anastomosis of inner flaps (intraoral lining-bone reconstruction flaps), the ipsilateral facial artery was used in 56 flaps (42.8 percent), the ipsilateral superior thyroid artery was used in 49 flaps (37.4 percent), and a branch of the internal jugular vein was used as recipient vein in 101 flaps (77.1 percent). For external flaps (soft-tissue-external skin reconstruction flaps), the ipsilateral superior thyroid artery was used in 59 flaps (50.4 percent) and the transverse cervical artery was used in 19 flaps (16.2 percent). In 14 patients the inner flaps provided distal run-off for external flap revascularization. Only seven flaps required vein grafts; they were all used for external face reconstruction (2.8 percent). There were six total (2.3 percent) and 12 partial (4.6 percent) flap failures. Recipient vessel selection and preparation in primary head and neck cancer reconstruction requiring two simultaneous flaps should take into consideration (1) avoidance of unnecessary destruction during tumor ablations and preservation of as many neck vessels as possible, (2) length and diameter match between flap pedicles and recipient vessels to avoid vein grafts, and (3) possible need of another free-flap reconstruction for flap failure, complication, recurrence, or secondary primary cancers. The previously radiated or operated neck does not preclude the use of recipient vessels from that side. Distal run-off of the inner flap for external flap revascularization should be avoided if possible. Once those principles are observed, two-flap reconstruction for primary cancer presents no more difficulties than single-flap reconstruction.