Groin Flap Transfer Research Articles

Mandibular Reconstruction with Free Tissue Transfers

During the past ten years, immediate mandibular reconstruction has gradually fallen into disfavor because of the incidence of infection and the increasing use of preoperative radiation therapy. The difficulty lies in selection of the ideal material for mandibular replacement and the attainment of a healthy recipient bed. An attempt has been made to solve this problem with microsurgical techniques, and our experience in six free tissue transfers utilizing both free rib and free osteocutaneous groin flap transfers is reported. The evolution of these techniques has required confirmation of the feasibility of free flaps in the oral cavity as well as incorporation of a vascularized bone graft in free groin flaps. Based on this experience, the free osteocutaneous groin flap containing a vascularized portion of the iliac crest is preferred for reconstruction of combined and composite deficiencies of the lower jaw. Convincing demonstration of bone viability in composite flaps must await correlation of bone scans with tetracycline labelling.

The youngest free groin flap yet?

A successful free groin flap transfer to the arm in a 3-month-old baby is described. The vessels were large enough for microvascular anastomosis and we believe that there is no minimum age restriction for free flap transfer.

Fournierʼs Gangrene of the Penis

Fournier's gangrene is a rare, fulminant, though generally localizaed disease of the scrotum and penis. Three cases are presented in which the sexual practices of the patients may have played a role in the etiology. Hospitalization, parenteral antibiotics, and appropriate surgical treatment are required.

Free microvascular transfer of a groin flap to the skull following scalp avulsion

The successful transfer of a large groin flap using microvascular anastomoses to cover a defect overlying the skull is described. The tissue loss was consequent upon avulsion of the scalp of a young lady and was attended by loss of the pericranium.

Free groin skin flaps

The operative technique of free groin flap transfer is described and some typical results presented. The overall complete success rate in 47 cases was 80 per cent, but complete necrosis only occurred in 11 per cent of the transferred flaps.