Osteocutaneous Free Flap Research Articles

Utility of Stereolithographic Models in Osteocutaneous Free Flap Reconstruction of the Head and Neck

Background Stereolithographic (SLA) models have become a valuable resource in preoperative planning in maxillofacial reconstruction. The objective of this study was to perform a defect specific analysis of the utility of SLA models. The goal was to determine the manner in which the perceived benefit of preoperative modeling translates to measurable clinical advantages. Methods Patients who underwent reconstruction of defects of the mandible or midface using SLA modeling between 2006 and 2011 were identified through billing records. Based on the nature and extent of bony defect, cases requiring nearly identical reconstruction, but without modeling, were matched case by case for comparison. Given the presumed efficiency of SLA modeling, a comparison of total and reconstructive operative times was performed to see if this could offset the cost of the model. Results There were 10 patients each in the "model" and "nonmodel" group. No significant differences were observed for total operative time between groups. Surprisingly, the total reconstructive time was lower in the group not using SLA models (p = 0.05). Conclusions SLA models provide several operative planning advantages, but did not appear to decrease operative time enough to sufficiently offset the cost of the model in this group.

Feasibility of Microvascular Head and Neck Reconstruction in the Setting of Calcified Arteriosclerosis of the Vascular Pedicle

OBJECTIVE To report outcomes in free flap reconstructive surgery in the setting of calcified arteriosclerosis affecting the flap pedicle. DESIGN Retrospective review, including a detailed analysis of medical records, histopathologic findings, and a comprehensive review of the literature. METHODS A total of 1329 consecutive microvascular free tissue transfers were performed by 2 reconstructive surgeons at a university-affiliated tertiary care medical center from January 1, 1996, through December 31, 2011. Clinical notes, operative notes, and pathology reports were systematically reviewed to identify 44 patients (3%) with calcified arteriosclerosis involving the flap vascular pedicle. A comprehensive medical record review was performed for the included patients, detailing patient-related characteristics, flap survival, and incidence of perioperative complications. RESULTS A history of arteriosclerosis was identified preoperatively in 18 patients (41%). Eight patients (18%) were specifically recognized clinically and histologically to have a variant of arteriosclerosis known as Mönckeberg medial calcific sclerosis. In total, fibula osteocutaneous free flap was performed in 30 patients, radial forearm in 8 patients, rectus abdominus in 3 patients, latissimus dorsi in 2 patients, and parascapular in 1 patient. Perioperative complications occurred in 17 patients (39%), with the most common being pulmonary (14%) and cardiac (9%). Patient follow-up ranged from 3 to 137 months, with a mean postoperative follow-up of 21 months. The mean length of hospital stay was 12 days. There was a 0% incidence of total flap failure and a 7% incidence of partial flap necrosis. CONCLUSION Although technically challenging, successful microvascular free flap reconstruction can be achieved despite the presence of vascular calcifications affecting the flap vascular pedicle.

Scapular free flap harvest site: recognising the spectrum of radiographic post-operative appearance

Scapular free flap harvesting for oral cavity cancer reconstruction is an increasingly used and versatile option. We aim to describe the appearance of the scapula harvest site on chest radiograph and CT. We retrospectively reviewed a surgical database of 82 patients who underwent scapular osteocutaneous flap harvesting for oral cavity cancer reconstruction and had imaging performed at our institution. We searched the picture archiving and communications system for all associated imaging. Characteristic radiographic appearance in the immediate post-operative period as well as in the remote post-operative period is described, including an upside-down V-shaped paraglenoid notch, rectangular (or triangular) lateral border defects and a sharply pointed inferior scapular body. Additionally, common CT appearances are discussed, including an abrupt gleno-scapular interval, an absent axillary rim bulge and a Z-shaped scapula. The altered appearance of the scapular defect following surgical harvest is easily recognised. Although the description of this defect may not alter management and may reasonably be omitted, a radiologist's comfort with these appearances may potentially enhance the understanding of patient management and recognition of superimposed complications, such as infection. Scapular osteocutaneous free flap reconstruction is an increasingly used technique after oral cavity surgery. Very few radiologists reported in our review the surgical scapular defects, and there is apparent ignorance of their appearance. We described characteristic radiographic and CT signs of scapular free flap harvesting to increase radiologists' familiarity with these defects, which may provide clinical information and possibly contribute to detection of complications.

The Use of Fibula Free Flap for Reconstruction of Anterior Chest Wall Full-Thickness Defects

Reconstructions of the sternum remain a formidable challenge for the operating team. Reconstruction of the sternumdefect, regardless of the reason, should ensure the stability of the anterior chest wall, the return of acceptable respiratory parameters and the control of wounds. Stability of the chest wall can be provided by autogenous tissues or prosthetic materials. In our experience, the fibula free osteocutaneous flaps are harvested for reconstruction of the bone defect in two patients after full-thickness defect of the sternum and anterior chest wall.

Microvascular reconstruction of the mandible: An argument for the fibula osteocutaneous free flap

Introduction/objectiveThe fibula osteocutaneous free flap has been a workhorse for mandibular reconstruction since Hidalgo's original description for its use for this purpose. The objective of this manuscript is to review the use of the fibula flap in mandibular reconstruction and to answer some of the commonly held misconceptions as to why some surgeons view it as an inferior reconstructive option to the vascularized iliac crest flap. Materials/methodsReview of the literature as it relates to the use of the fibula free flap in mandibular reconstruction and the senior author's experience. ResultsThe bicortical nature of the fibula provides a stable platform for endosseous implant placement, thus allowing for comprehensive oral rehabilitation and improving the quality of life in reconstructed patients. The fibula osteocutaneous free flap, however, is the longest vascularized bone flap available, allowing for reconstruction of the entire mandible. Given these attributes, it would seem unlikely that doubts regarding the adequacy of the fibula free flap in mandibular reconstruction exists. However, the principal arguments challenging the use of the fibula osteocutaneous free flap are the lack of height of the reconstructed fibula compared to the native mandible, unreliable skin perforators to support a skin paddle, insufficient soft tissue coverage, and the presence of vascular anomalies which may preclude its use. These presumed shortcomings are circumvented with various proven techniques to increase fibular height and anatomic studies demonstrating the cutaneous perforator patterns. ConclusionsWith these simple solutions in mind, the fibula osteocutaneous free flap will likely remain a workhorse for mandibular reconstruction, allowing for the reconstruction of virtually any oromandibular defect. It allows for both aesthetic, as well as, functional reconstruction of the mandible.

Mandibular reconstruction using osteocutaneous radial forearm flap.

To describe the use of radial forearm osteocutaneous free flap in complex mandibular reconstruction. A case series. Combined Military Hospital, Rawalpindi, from January 1998 to January 2008. Patients having a small bony component and a large soft tissue mandibular defect requiring reconstruction were selected. These defects include composite through-and-through defects of the cheek in the retromolar trigone, small lateral bony defects with large intra and extra oral soft tissue defects and small central bony defects with large extra oral tissue loss. Radial forearm osteocutaneous free flap was employed. Complications and graft acceptance were determined at follow-up. Patients were followed-up for an average period of 28 months. Complications occurred in 8 patients. Wound infection and partial wound dehiscence were the most common complication observed in 3 patients. Non-union at recipient site was seen in 2 patients. Flap donor site healed uneventfully in all patients with no fractures at the donor site. The radial forearm osteocutaneous flap covers oromandibular defects with large intra-oral and extra oral soft tissue losses. Lateral and anterior mandibular defects were reconstructed satisfactorily in our series.

Reconstruction of the segmental mandibular defect

This article reviews literature pertaining to advances in the reconstruction of segmental mandibular defects in the context of an established standard of care, microvascular transfer of free osteocutaneous flaps. Most literature reiterates established reconstructive techniques. Exceptions include the use of computer-assisted modeling to preoperatively design the excision of both the mandible and fibula segments and to produce a template for contouring the neomandible, the design of new flaps, distraction osteogenesis and techniques for dealing with osteonecrosis. The microvascular transfer of free osteocutaneous flaps remains the standard of care, with the fibula flap the clear favorite. Review of the evolution of this flap for segmental mandibular reconstruction provides the bulk of the literature. Improvement on this standard of practice continues to be elusive, in large part because of the effects of associated radiation. Tissue engineering holds promise but no current practical application is available.

The Etiology and Treatment of the Softened Phallus after the Radial Forearm Osteocutaneous Free Flap Phalloplasty

BackgroundThe radial forearm osteocutaneous free flap is considered to be the standard technique for penile construction. One year after their operation, most patients experience a softened phallus, so that they suffer from difficulties in sexual intercourse. In this report, we present our experience with phalloplasty by radial forearm osteocutaneous free flap, as well as an evaluation of the etiology and treatment of the softened phallus.MethodsBetween March 2005 and February 2010, 58 patients underwent phalloplasty by radial forearm osteocutaneous free flap. Most of their neophallus had been softened subjectively and among them, 12 patients who wanted correction were investigated. We performed repetitive fat injection, artificial dermis grafting, silicone rod insertion, and rib bone with cartilaginous tip graft. Physical examination, plain radiograph, computed tomography, bone scintigraphy, and satisfaction scores were investigated.ResultsMost of the participants' penises have been softened after phalloplasty, and the skin elasticity had been also decreased. On plain radiograph, the distal end of the bone was self-rounded; however, the bone shape of the neophallus had no significant interval changes or resorption. Computed tomography showed equivocal density of cortical bone. On bone scintigraphy, the bone metabolism was active at 3 months postoperatively, and remained active 9 years postoperatively.ConclusionsThe use of a rib bone with cartilaginous tip graft could be an option for improvement of the softened phallus. Silicon rod insertion is also worth considering for rigidity of the softened phallus. Decreased rigidity due to soft tissue atrophy could be alleviated with repeated fat injection and artificial dermis grafting.

Etiologic causes of late osteocutaneous free flap failures in oral cavity cancer reconstruction

To evaluate perioperative complications in a homogeneous cohort undergoing microvascular osteocutaneous free flap (OCFF) reconstruction following segmental mandibulectomy for advanced oral cancer and to identify the causes of late OCFF failures. Retrospective chart review. The records of 65 adults who underwent a segmental mandibulectomy for primary oral cavity cancer followed by single-stage reconstruction OCFF were reviewed. Early and late complications were identified and their associations to patients' independent variables and to each other were analyzed to assess etiologic causes of late OCFF failure. The incidence of early and late complications mirrored each another at 29%, and a 95% early-success rate was achieved. An early complication did predict an early infection (odds ratio [OR], 63.3; 95% confidence interval [CI], 6.8-585.3). Furthermore, an early perioperative infection impacted the incidence of late complications (OR, 4.8; 95% CI, 1.3-18.3), and moreover severely impacted the incidence of osteomyelitis/osteoradionecrosis (OR, 8.8; 95% CI, 1.8-41.9) and late failures (OR, 12.8; 95% CI, 1.9-84.5). Mandibular reconstruction following segmental mandibulectomy provides immediate restoration but is often plagued with perioperative complications that are difficult to predict. Early perioperative infections impact patient long-term morbidity by increasing the risk of late graft failure by almost 13-fold. Consequently, it is felt that early aggressive treatment of these infections may reduce the incidence and severity of late complications and improve patient outcomes.

Reverse‐flow scapular osteocutaneous flap for head and neck reconstruction

The scapular osteocutaneous flap can be used for the reconstruction of a variety of head and neck defects. In this study, we describe use of the reverse-flow scapular osteocutaneous flap in the setting of a vessel-depleted neck. A retrospective review of patients who underwent scapular osteocutaneous free flap reconstruction over a 5-year period revealed 3 patients who underwent reverse-flow osteocutaneous scapular flaps. Indications for surgery included a large recurrent desmoid tumor of the mandible, recurrent alveolar ridge carcinoma, and osteoradionecrosis. All patients had a history of neck dissection and radiotherapy. Exploration of the contralateral neck was required to identify recipient vessels in all cases. Arterial and venous anastomoses were performed to the distal end of the thoracodorsal artery and subscapular vein, respectively, and no vein grafts were required. There were no cases of flap failures or donor site complications. This series demonstrates the safety and efficacy of the reverse flow osteocutaneous flap for complex mandibular reconstruction in cases where recipient vessels are limited.

Sequential Second Free Fibula Flap for the Reconstruction of Metachronous Osteoradionecrosis of the Mandible

Osteoradionecrosis (ORN) of the mandible is a potentially catastrophic complication of external beam radiation therapy for head and neck malignancies. A 55-year-old man treated with chemoradiation for base-of-tongue cancer presented with a necrotic left mandibular body and underwent left mandibulectomy with right free fibula osteocutaneous flap reconstruction. Two and a half years later, he presented with right mandibular body ORN and underwent a second mandibular resection and subsequent reconstruction with a left fibula osteocutaneous free flap fixed in the midline to the previously placed contralateral fibula. He recovered well from all procedures. To the best of our knowledge, we report the first case of a patient with metachronous ORN of the mandible requiring resection and subsequent reconstruction with sequential free fibula flaps. Even in the presence of prior microvascular reconstructions, patients can successfully undergo additional reconstructive procedures to restore their function, appearance, and quality of life.

Orbitomaxillary Reconstruction Using the Layered Fibula Osteocutaneous Flap

To describe a surgical technique for total palatomaxillary and orbital reconstruction using a fibula osteocutaneous free flap in a layered fashion. Case series from a tertiary care facial plastic and reconstructive surgical practice including patients with postextirpative Brown 3a and 3b orbitopalatomaxillary defects undergoing immediate microvascular reconstruction. Application of the layered fibula free flap to composite maxillary defects permits single-stage, optimal reconstruction of contiguous orbitomaxillary defects, reconstitution of midface 3-dimensional contour, and restoration of the anterior alveolar arch with robust bone, thereby providing for potential sequential dental rehabilitation with osseointegrated implants. This technique demonstrates excellent long-term symmetry, support, function, and aesthetic contour. Although patients may need minor, adjunctive procedures, this technique is flexible in design and offers reliable outcomes with a minimum of morbidity. The fibula osteocutaneous free flap, because of its design flexibility and ability to provide structural support, is an excellent reconstructive option for total maxillary defects, including those that involve the orbit.

Latissimus dorsi (LD) free flap and reconstruction plate used for extensive maxillo-mandibular reconstruction after tumour ablation

PurposeThe purpose of this study was to consider the indications and evaluate the clinical advantages and disadvantages including, results and complications, of immediate reconstruction using a latissimus dorsi (LD) free flap and reconstruction plate (R-plate) in advanced oro-mandibular tumour resection. Methods and materialsOur cohort included 116 patients who underwent LD free flap and R-plate reconstruction. Flap survival, postoperative function, donor/recipient site complication and aesthetics were evaluated. ResultsOur series demonstrated a 99.1% flap survival rate. One case required a contralateral LD free flap reconstruction after the initial flap failed due to pedicle kinking. Twelve patients needed the plate to be removed and replaced (n=4, plate fracture; n=2, plate exposure) or definite reconstruction with free fibular flap and implant installation. Donor site complications included seroma accumulation, scarring, and discomfort of the shoulder girdle. The size of the skin paddle ranged from 6×10cm to 12×18cm (12 were double paddled).The facial contour was acceptable without sagging of the flap. The flap was tolerant to irradiation and was resistant to the exposure of the plate at the symphyseal arch. ConclusionOur series of primary reconstruction with LD free flaps and R-plates showed the retention of mandibular function and the reconstruction of considerably large soft tissue can be achieved successfully. This reconstruction scheme can be indicated for large-volume defects in the oro-mandibular area when the area cannot be covered by a single osteocutaneous free flap, has undergone extensive oncologic resection for advanced or high recurrence rate malignancy and when immediate postoperative chemotherapy and/or irradiation is necessary.

Clinical Results of Reconstruction with an Osteocutaneous Free Fibula Flap, Combined with a Recycled Autogeneous Bone Graft for Bone and Soft Tissue Sarcoma of the Lower Extremities

Clinical Results of Reconstruction with an Osteocutaneous Free Fibula Flap, Combined with a Recycled Autogeneous Bone Graft for Bone and Soft Tissue Sarcoma of the Lower Extremities

Preoperative Identification of Perforator Using CT Angiography in Fibular Osteocutaneous Free Flap Head and Neck Reconstruction

Copyright © 2012 The Korean Cleft Palate-Craniofacial Association This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution Non-Commercial License (http://creativecommons.org/ licenses/by-nc/3.0/) which permits unrestricted non-commercial use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited. www.kcpca.or.kr ISSN 2287-1152 41 유리비골피부피판을 이용한 두경부 재건 시 CT Angiography를 통한 천공지의 확인

Transplantation of the free fibular osteocutaneous flap for repair of long bone defect of the upper extremity

Objective To explore the clinical application and results of free fibular osteocutaneous flap transplantation for repair of long bone defect of the upper extremity.Methods From June 2000 to December 2010,free fibular bone flap was applied to repair long bone defect of the upper extremity in 12 cases,among which 4 cases had osteocutaneous flap.Of the 12 cases,there were 11 males and 1 female.Their ages ranged from 19 to 55 years old,with 35 years old on average.The fibular bone flap was used to repair humerus shaft bone defects in 2 cases,ulnar bone defects in 6 cases,and radius bone defects in 4 cases.The area of the cutaneous fibular flap ranged from 1.5 cm × 2.0 cm to 12.0 cm × 16.0 cm.The length of fibular bone flap ranged from 6.0 cm to 20.0 cm. Results All 12 cases were successfully follow-up.The mean follow-up duration was 2 years and 5 months.All 4 cutaneous flaps survived completely.Wounds healed in the primary attempt in 11 cases and in the secondary attempt in 1 case (healing time ranged from 12 to 18 days).Bone healing time ranged from 3 to 6 months (4 months on average) in fibula transplantation.The Enneking score system was applied to evaluate the upper extremity function.Of the 12 cases,the mean score was 27 (their scores ranged from 22 to 29).There was no functional impairment of the donor sites.Conclusion Despite the technical difficulty and risk,transplantation of the free fibular osteocutaneous flap is an optimal method to repair long bone defect of the upper extremity in that it can repair defects of the bone and soft tissue simultaneously. Key words: Transplantation; Upper extremity; Surgical flaps; Fibula; Bone defect

Reconstruction of an Entire Metacarpal and Metacarpophalangeal Joint Using a Fibular Osteocutaneous Free Flap and Silicone Arthroplasty

Radical resection of the entire ring finger metacarpal for a giant cell tumor resulted in a bony defect extending from the distal surface of the hamate to the proximal surface of the proximal phalanx. We reconstructed the metacarpal with a custom-contoured free fibular osteocutaneous flap and maintained motion at the new fibulophalangeal joint using a silicone arthroplasty. At 4.5 years postoperatively, the patient has shown no signs of recurrence of the giant cell tumor. The silicone arthroplasty has maintained 15° to 85° of motion at the new joint. Because of its similar shape to a metacarpal and because it allows faster bony healing compared with a nonvascularized fibular bone graft, a free vascularized fibular bone graft is an ideal candidate for reconstruction of extensive defects of the metacarpals, and placement of a silicone spacer in its distal medullary cavity can preserve motion at the new metacarpophalangeal joint.

Lower limb reconstruction with bone free flaps: experience of 25 cases

Bone structure is fundamental for the function of the lower limbs—orthostatism and locomotion. Before the technical evolution observed in the last two decades, many extremities that are saved now were amputated in the past. Lower limb bone defects are generally associated with complex traumatic lesions and constitute a permanent reconstructive challenge. The management of this kind of defect requires a multidisciplinary approach involving plastic and orthopedic surgeons. The bone free flaps are a very important and technically exacting tool for lower limb bone reconstruction. We present and analyze our experience in 25 traumatic cases where we used 17 fibula free flaps and 2 iliac crest free flaps for tibia and talus reconstruction; 5 fibula free flaps for femur reconstruction; and 1 antebrachial radial osteocutaneous free flap for first metatarsal reconstruction. We registered 88% of success (three flap necroses—12%) with good bone integration and good functional recovery. Lower limb bone reconstruction is a long and tortuous stair whose success depends not only on the multidisciplinary surgical team but also on the patient's cooperation and determination

Total or subtotal glossectomy with microsurgical reconstruction: Functional and oncological results

Management of patients after total or subtotal glossectomy presents challenging reconstruction of complex three-dimensional defects. Such defects can have a dramatic effect on respiration, speech, and nutrition, and may significantly impact quality of life. We present our experience with 39 patients submitted to total or subtotal glossectomy and reconstruction with microsurgical flaps. Functional results are reported in term of swallowing ability, decannulation, and intelligible speech. Oncological outcomes are described in terms of local disease control and overall survival rate. We carried out 24 total glossectomies and 15 subtotal glossectomies. Total glossectomy was associated with a total laryngectomy in eight patients. Reconstruction was performed using Taylor's myocutaneous extended deep inferior epigastric flap in 33 patients, and an anterolateral thigh perforator flap in six patients. A fibula osteocutaneous free flap was raised in two patients with an anterior segmental mandibulectomy. A second free flap was needed in three cases. Wound complications occurred in 17 patients: an orocutaneous fistula in eight patients and a dehiscence of the suture without fistulization in nine patients. Oral feeding was resumed in 33 patients (85%). In nonlaryngectomized patients, decannulation was achieved in 28 (90%) and speech was good or acceptable in 27 (87%). The 5-year adjusted survival for patients treated with total or subtotal glossectomy was 47%. Our results in a relatively large sample of patients who underwent total or subtotal glossectomy followed by reconstruction with microsurgical free flaps support the efficacy of this surgery as treatment for advanced oral and oral pharyngeal cancers.

Biomechanical study of the effectiveness of unilocking T-plate systems for prophylactic internal fixation of the radial osteocutaneous donor site

Introduction: Prophylactic internal fixation (PIF), with a bone plate in either the anterior (over the section defect) or posterior (on intact cortex) position, has substantially reduced the incidence of fracture at the donor site of the radial osteocutaneous free flap. This study uses the sheep tibia model to compare the effectiveness of new T-shaped titanium plates utilising a unilocking screw system with a 3.5 mm steel plate and bicortical screw fixation system commonly applied for PIF.