Vascularized Fibula Flap Research Articles

Analysis of changes in bone mineral density and cortical bone thickness after reconstruction of the mandible with fibula, is condyle preservation a critical influence factor?

This study aimed to investigate the features of bone mineral density (BMD) and cortical bone thickness in grafted fibula. Eighty-six patients who underwent mandibular reconstruction using vascularized fibula flaps were enrolled, all of whom were followed up at 3, 6, and 12 months after surgery. The patients were grouped according to whether the condyle was preserved. BMD and cortical bone thickness were also measured. Condyle-preserved group consisted of 65 patients and condyle-unpreserved group consisted of 21 patients. There was a significant correlation between thickness and BMD, which was significantly correlated with follow-up time. One year after surgery, the BMD of the condyle-preserved group decreased from 1029.61 ± 156.01mg/cm3 to 978.6 ± 141.90mg/cm3, and thickness decreased from 3.29 ± 0.65mm to 2.72 ± 0.72mm. BMD of the condyle-unpreserved group decreased from 1062.21 ± 126.01mg/cm3 to 851.26 ± 144.38mg/cm3, and thickness decreased from 3.46 ± 0.89mm to 2.56 ± 0.73mm. In the condyle-preserved and unpreserved groups, the absorption rates of BMD were 3.29 ± 11.97% and 17.09 ± 12.42% at 12 months, respectively, and the rate of thickness was 20.7 ± 11.45% and 26.39 ± 12.23% at 12 months, respectively. BMD and thickness showed a decreasing trend over time. Preserving the condyle can slow bone resorption of the fibula. Regarding implant restoration, we recommend doctors to perform the treatment within 6-12 months after surgery in order to effectively manage bone resorption. Our study found that condylar preservation can decrease the absorption rate of BMD and cortical bone thickness, helping doctors make better clinical decisions. ChiCTR2300069661 (March 22, 2023).

A generalizable procedure for Brown's class Ⅱ and Ⅲ defects reconstruction with deep circumflex iliac artery flap using computer-assisted technique

ObjectiveThis study summarizes and analyzes the characteristics of deep circumflex iliac artery (DCIA) flap reconstruction for maxillary defects and proposes a generalized protocol under the guidance of computer-assisted technique to enhance surgical efficiency and success rate. Materials and methodsWe retrospectively reviewed 10 cases of maxillary defects reconstructed using DCIA flaps under the application of computer-assisted technique, collecting clinical data for statistical analysis. ResultsThese cases included 2 cystic lesions, 2 mucinous tumors, 2 ameloblastomas, 1 mucoepidermoid carcinoma, 1 odontogenic fibroma, 1 bone defect following squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) surgery, and 1 ossifying fibroma. According to Brown's classification system, there were 7 Type IIb defects, 1 Type IId defect, 1 Type IIIb defect, and 1 Type IIId defect. The length of the iliac bone harvested ranged from 42 mm to 100 mm, and the width from 20 mm to 51 mm. In 7 patients, chimeric iliac myofascial flaps were used; in 2 patients, deep circumflex iliac artery perforator (DCIAP) flaps were utilized; and in 1 patient, a vascularized iliac crest was employed. The recipient vessels were the facial artery and vein in all cases. Intraoral anastomoses were performed in 4 cases, and submandibular anastomoses in 6 cases. The donor site was chosen from the ipsilateral ilium in 8 patients and from the contralateral ilium in 2 patients. The mean operative time was 8.74 hours. Postoperatively, 9 patients recovered well without any complications, while 1 patient experienced necrosis of the bone flap on the first day after surgery and underwent secondary reconstruction using a vascularized fibula flap. The average postoperative hospital stay was 8.6 days. ConclusionThe combination of DCIA flaps with computer-assisted technique provides a reliable method for the reconstruction of maxillary defects and functional restoration. Establishing generalized procedures could facilitate its broader application.

Use of a 2/3 Free Vascularized Fibula Flap for Tibiofibular Bone Defect Reconstruction

Case: A 40-year-old man with a tibiofibular bone defect caused by infection was treated using a 2/3 free vascularized fibula flap, which preserved 1/3 of the continuous periosteum and cortex of the fibula at the donor site, allowing for regeneration of fibular bone defect caused by bone harvesting procedure. At 16 months of follow-up, his bilateral lower limb function had recovered well. Conclusions: A 2/3 free vascularized fibula flap is an effective treatment approach for long-segment bone defects. This technique not only provides sufficient mechanical strength and stability at the defect site but also facilitates regeneration of the donor site fibula.

Application of Submandibular Gland Flap in the Repair of Postoperative Defects in Clinical Stage III Osteoradionecrosis of the Jaw.

Investigating the clinical efficacy of submandibular gland flap repair for postoperative defects in clinical stage III osteoradionecrosis of the jaw was the objective of this study. The study included 3 patients who declined vascularized fibula flap repair for mandibular defects and 1 patient who was not fit for mandibular reconstruction due to poor systemic condition. The postoperative defects were successfully repaired using a submandibular gland flap, and the clinical outcomes were monitored. After a 6 to 8 month postoperative follow-up, all patients exhibited good wound healing, no signs of infection, no pain, and normal submandibular gland function. The study demonstrated that submandibular gland flap repair is an effective and feasible approach for addressing postoperative defects in clinical stage III osteoradionecrosis of the jaw, yielding satisfactory clinical results.

Versatility of Vascularized Fibular Graft in Forearm Bone Loss: From Initial Treatment to Secondary Nonunion Treatment

PurposeManaging mangled forearms poses a significant challenge for orthopedic and plastic surgeons. The vascularized fibular graft (FVFG) is a commonly used technique for addressing this complex issue. This retrospective study aims to assess the outcomes of advanced treatment for complex forearm bone loss necessitating microsurgical treatment with a vascularized fibula flap. MethodsPatients treated with vascularized fibula graft (VFG) between January 2010 and December 2022 were included in this analysis. Physical and radiographic evaluations were performed for all patients, and they completed patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) such as the DASH, Mayo Wrist score, and VAS-Pain scores for both the recipient and donor sites. Patients treated with one-bone forearm reconstruction were also assessed using the Outcome Score of the one-bone forearm according to Peterson (OBF). ResultsA total of 26 cases were treated with VFG for forearm bone defect reconstruction (13 for primary treatment and 13 for secondary treatment of non union). VFG was employed to create a one-bone forearm in 4 cases, a double barrel in 3 cases, and an osteocutaneous composite flap in 9 cases. The average bone defect measured 81 ± 3.4 mm (range 50-150 mm). Bone healing was achieved at an average of 8.3 months ± 5.5 months (4-15 months)., with nonunion at one docking point observed in 8 cases necessitating revision. At the follow-up endpoint, patients reported an average DASH score of 13.5%, a Mayo Wrist score of 80%, and VAS-Pain's score was 3/10. The VAS-Pain outcome at the donor site was rated at 4/10. OBI's mean was 7/10. ConclusionsFVFG stands as a viable option for mangled forearm reconstruction. Whether through the double barrel technique or as an osteocutaneous composite graft, FVFG allows for the simultaneous reconstruction of both forearm bones and associated soft tissue injuries.

Volumetric Bone Changes in Double Barrel Vascularized Fibula Flap Used for Mandibular Reconstruction: A Randomized Clinical Trial.

To assess the volumetric bone changes in double barrel vascularized fibular flap used for mandibular reconstruction using 3D miniplate versus 3D titanium mesh tray. Twenty patients seeking mandibular reconstruction were selected for this 2-arm parallel randomized clinical trial with a 1:1 allocation ratio. Both groups underwent double-barrel fibula free flap for mandibular reconstruction with fixation of the superior barrel to the inferior barrel using a Titanium mesh (Group A) or a 3D plate (Group B). The primary outcome was volumetric bone changes (immediate to 6 months postoperatively). Eleven participants (55%) were females, and 9 participants (45%) were males. The mean age of patients in group A was (28.8±8.9) years, while group B was (30.7±11.4) years. There was a statistically significant difference within each group in the volumetric bone changes with means of -7942.1±1804.8mm3 and -6288.8±2607.3 for groups A and B, respectively. The difference between both groups was statistically insignificant with the mean of -1653.3±1002.8mm3. The percentage of mean volumetric change relative to immediate postoperatively for group A was -14.15%, while in group B was -11.01%. Both the titanium mesh tray and the 3D plate were effective in the fixation of the superior barrel of the vascularized fibular flap for mandibular reconstruction. There was no difference between both modalities regarding volumetric bone changes.

Fibula Free Flap Reconstruction of Cervical Spine Defects: A Multi-Institutional Study.

Cervical spine defects result in spinal instability, putting the spinal cord and vertebral arteries at risk of damage and possibly devastating neurological injuries. The fibula free flap can span the spinal defects for stability. There is a paucity of literature on this technique. Multi-institutional retrospective case series reviewing patients who underwent cervical spine reconstruction with a fibula free flap. Patient demographic information, comorbidities, characteristics of cervical spine defects, and free flap complications were collected. A total of 1187 fibula free flaps across 10 different institutions were reviewed. Thirteen patients (1.09%) underwent cervical spine reconstruction with a fibula free flap. Average age was 52.3 years old with an age range of 12-79 years. There were six males (46.1%) and seven females (53.8%). The most common defect etiology was infection (n = 6, 46.1%). Most commonly involved cervical spine level of the defect was C5 (n = 10) followed by C6 (n = 9) and C4 (n = 8). The majority of reconstructed defects spanned three or more cervical levels, (n = 9, 69.2%). Facial artery was the most common arterial anastomosis (n = 8). Eight patients (61.5%) required a tracheostomy during their postoperative course. None of the patients had symptomatic or radiographic nonunion. This case series demonstrates that a vascularized fibula flap is a potential reconstructive option for cervical spine defects, especially in defects greater than three cervical levels, in the setting of infection, and previously radiated patients. Level 4 Laryngoscope, 2024.

Comparison of limb reconstruction with vascularized fibula flap versus induced membrane technique in 54 pediatric cases over 16 years

BackgroundChildren's bone loss of limbs represents a significant challenge for surgeons, especially given that children are growing individuals. In the pediatric population, we compared bone reconstruction using vascularized fibula flaps with the induced membrane technique. The primary purpose of this study was to evaluate the delay and quality of consolidation. Methods.Data from patients who underwent limb reconstruction using either the fibula flap or the induced membrane were retrospectively collected from files across two centers. Perioperative and long-term complications were documented, along with functional and aesthetic outcome. ResultsBetween 2004 and 2020, 31 children underwent limb reconstruction using a fibula flap, and 13 patients were treated using the induced membrane technique. The etiologies included 76% tumors, 20% congenital pseudarthroses, and 3.7% infections. The median size of the bone resection was 12.5cm (range: 1.8 to 31cm). The median time to consolidation after free fibula flap transfer was 10 months (range: 2 to 55 months) versus 7.5 months (range: 1 to 64 months) for the Masquelet technique (p=0.54). Limb length inequality occured in 52% of fibula cases and 39% of the induced membrane cases (p=0.55). ConclusionsBoth of free fibula flap and the induced membrane technique are effective options for bone reconstructing long bones in children. These techniques yield good functional outcomes and have comparable consolidation times.

Multiple Buttresses Reconstruction of Maxilla with Fibular Flap Using Computer-aided Design/Computer-aided Manufacturing after Maxillectomy.

The maxilla comprises horizontal and vertical buttresses, each with specific functions, supporting various organs, such as the eyes, nose, and oral cavity. Notably, they combine to form a three-dimensional structure, which enables the buttresses to provide their inherent support strength. However, reconstructing the maxilla after maxillectomy by assembling new buttresses is challenging. We successfully reconstructed all the buttresses crucial for facial appearance and dental rehabilitation using a vascularized fibular flap. Four patients underwent maxillary buttress reconstruction with a fibular flap after total or subtotal maxillectomy. We used computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing digital technology to osteotomize the fibula into multiple segments and assemble them to reconstruct the maxillary buttresses. Each buttress was assembled based on a preoperative simulation. All patients underwent immediate one-stage maxillary reconstruction. They had good maxillary buttress alignment and acquired good facial appearance, eye position, nasal airway, and prosthetically suitable maxillary alveolus ridge. The combination of computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing digital technology and surgical techniques has enabled novel maxillary reconstruction, providing great hope to patients experiencing facial disfigurement and loss of function after maxillectomy.

The use of vascularized fibula flap with allograft in post-oncologic microsurgical bone reconstruction of lower limbs in pediatric patients.

Post-oncologic surgical reconstruction of lower limbs in pediatrics remains a challenging topic. Microsurgical techniques allow reconstructions of large bony defects. The use of vascularized fibular flap with allograft has proven to be an ideal biologic construct. We aim to assess the success rate of this operation, including flap survival, bony union, weight-bearing ambulation, and complications in a long-term follow-up in our case series compared to the literature. Our case-series includes 18 femoral resections (9 osteosarcomas, 8 Ewing sarcoma, and 1 desmoid tumor) and 15 tibial resections (10 osteosarcoma, 4 Ewing sarcoma, and 1 Malignant Fibrous Histiocytoma). We collected patients' demographics, type of tumor, type of resection, defect size, fibula-flap length, method of fixation, anastomosis site, follow-up data, complications, and their management. All survivals were examined by X-ray and CT-scan to evaluate the morphological changes of the vascularized fibula and follow-up. The functional evaluation was performed by the 30-point Musculoskeletal Tumor Society Rating Score (MSTS) for the lower limb (Enneking et al., Clinical Orthopaedics and Related Research 1993(286):241-246). The mean age of the femur resection patients' group was 11.2 years with a mean defect size of 14 cm and a mean length of the fibular flap of 18 cm; for the tibia the mean age was 12 years with a mean defect size of 14 cm and a mean length of the fibular flap of 16.6 cm. The overall survival of the reconstructions at 5 years follow-up was 17 out 18 cases for the femur and 13 out of 15 cases for the tibia. MSTS score was 28.2 for the femur and 23.7 for the tibia. The average time of union of the fibula was seen after 5 months, while allograft consolidation was observed around 19.7 months. The mean time of follow-up was 144.5 months for the femur and 139.2 months for the tibia. The complication rate observed was 7 out of 18 for the femur and 7 out of 15 for the tibia reconstructions. The viability of the fibula is a cornerstone in the success of reconstruction as well as the successful management of complications in intercalary defects after tumor resection in pediatrics to restore good functionality. Our results are in line with those reported in the literature in terms of overall complication rates. The high primary union of allograft, the high MSTS score obtained, and the low rate of severe complications reflect the mechanical role of this reconstructive technique over a long follow-up.

Free Fibula Flap for Congenital Pseudarthrosis of the Tibia: Indications and Challenges

BackgroundCongenital pseudoarthrosis of the tibia (CPT) is a rare pathological disease associated with neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1). It presents with tibial bowing and can progress into a nonhealing fracture. Treatment options include conservative approaches such as serial bracing or various surgical options.Surgically, the aims are to achieve long-term bone union, prevent limb length discrepancies (LLDs), and avoid mechanical axis deviation, soft tissue lesions, nearby joint stiffness, and pathological fracture.The purpose of our study is to highlight our experience with both the conservative approach and the use of vascularized free fibula reconstruction of these deformities, including the challenges encountered with a long-term follow-up until skeletal maturity. MethodsWe present a retrospective analysis of a total of nine (9) patients consisting of three (3) girls and six (6) boys. Six (6) children were treated with a vascularized fibula flap, and the other three (3) were treated conservatively. Outcomes measured included fractures, LLD, ankle valgus deformity, donor site morbidity, and number of surgical corrections. ResultsAll patients had flap survival. Three (3) of six children had a previous failed surgery with intramedullary nail and bone graft prior to performing a vascularized free fibula reconstruction. The follow-up period ranged from 8 months to 200 months. The complications included stress fractures (50%), LLD (66.6%), and ankle valgus (33.3%). During growth phases, these children required multiple corrective surgeries. ConclusionsFibula free flap is a good treatment option for CPT even in patients with prior surgical failures with variable results.Level of Evidence - Level 4 - Case series Therapeutic Studies—Investigating the Results of Treatment.

Management of head & neck sarcomas in adults: A retrospective study

The research purpose is to review the surgical approach and evaluate the results in adult patients with head and neck sarcomas.The histopathology varied, including two leiomyosarcomas, six malignant fibrous histiocytomas, two malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors, four dermatofibrosarcomas protuberans, three osteosarcomas, two angiosarcomas, one liposarcoma, one Ewing sarcoma, one synovial sarcoma, two unclassified/non-differentiated sarcomas and one solitary fibrous tumor. Surgical resection included maxillectomy, mandibulectomy, craniectomy, parotidectomy, scalp resection, face skin resection and laminectomy. The reconstruction was performed with one rectus abdominis flap, four radial forearm flaps, two latissimus dorsi flaps, two vascularized fibula flaps, two pectoralis major myocutaneous flaps, two trapezius flaps, two temporalis flaps, seven scalp flaps and two nasolabial flaps.The total patient number was 24. The hospitalization was uncomplicated, followed by postoperative radiotherapy in the majority of cases. In a mean 15-year follow-up period, 11 patients are still alive and disease-free. There were four recurrences treated with palliative radiotherapy.The surgical approach for head and neck sarcomas, including the achievement of a functionally acceptable result by organ sparing techniques, remains challenging. Wide resection combined with the appropriate reconstruction, particularly with microsurgical techniques, and followed by adjuvant radiotherapy or chemotherapy offer improved prognosis and quality of life.

Versatility of Free Vascularised Fibular Flap in Extremity Reconstruction: A Retrospective Study

Introduction: Complex wounds of the extremities have always been a challenge for the reconstructive surgeon. Non-vascularized methods for the reconstruction of bony defects are associated with more complications. So the free vascularised fibular flap (FVFF) has become a workhorse flap for the reconstruction of these defects. In this study we aim to share our experience of reconstruction of such defects using free vascularised fibular flap. Material and methods: We performed a retrospective study of the 18 patients who underwent extremity reconstruction with free vascularised fibular flap at our hospital i.e. Yenepoya Medical College and Hospital, Mangaluru during a five-year period i.e. from January 2019 to December 2023. In all these patients, we studied and evaluated the cause and location of defects, type of free vascularised fibular flap, choice of the recipient vessels, type of the anastomosis, the survival rate, functional outcomes and complications. Results: Totally 18 patients with a mean age of 39.4 years had undergone extremity reconstruction with a free vascularised fibular flap with complete bone viability. The defects were present within the humerus, radius, femur, tibia and metatarsal. Union at the osteotomy sites was noted radiologically at an average time of five months. The average period to return function was 14 months. Conclusions: The use of a free vascularised fibula flap is the best modality for the reconstruction of the bony defects of the limb and is proved to have a high bony healing rate, early return to ambulation, good function of the extremity and less incidence of complication regardless of the cause of the bony defect. One or more skin paddle can be taken along with the bone for the coverage in case of exposure of deeper tissue.

Long-Term Results in the Treatment of Avascular Necrosis of Femoral Head with Free Vascularized Fibular Graft

Objective: to evaluate outcomes of vascularized fibula flap used for Avascular necrosis of femoral head. Outcomes were recorded by post-operative Harris hip and radiological improvement of the femoral head. Study Design: Retrospective longitudinal study. Place and Duration of Study: Department of Plastic Surgery, Shifa International Hospital, Islamabad Pakistan, from Jan 2019 to Jan 2020. Methodology: Cases were recruited from 2005-2018 (SIH) performed by the same Orthopaedic and Plastic Surgeon. Data from 30 patients was reviewed. Ethical approval and consent of the patient were taken before the utilization of their data. Results: A total of 30 patients were included, comprising 27(90%) males and 3(10%) females. The mean age was 28.3± years. Pre-operative Harris Hip scores were fair in 17(56.7%) and poor in 13(43.3%) patients. Post operatively these scores improvedv and were noted to be excellent in 10(33.3%), good in 18(60%) and fair in 2(6,7%) patients. Radiological improvement was seen in 20(80%) patients, 8(23.3%) showed no change and 2(6.7%) went into progression. The radiological improvement was significantly associated with aetiology (p=0.004) and Avascular necrosis of HIP (p=0.007). Conclusion: A vascularized fibular graft is an effective treatment option for avascular necrosis of the femoral head in terms of improved radiological outcomes and post-operative Harris Hip scores.

Application of a modified osteotomy and positioning integrative template system (MOPITS) based on a truncatable reconstruction model in the precise mandibular reconstruction with fibula free flap: a pilot clinical study

BackgroundMandibular defects can greatly affect patients' appearance and functionality. The preferred method to address this issue is reconstructive surgery using a fibular flap. The current personalized guide plate can improve the accuracy of osteotomy and reconstruction, but there are still some problems such as complex design process and time-consuming. Therefore, we modified the conventional template to serve the dual purpose of guiding the mandible and fibula osteotomy and facilitating the placement of the pre-bent titanium.MethodsThe surgery was simulated preoperatively using Computer-Aided Design (CAD) technology. The template and truncatable reconstruction model were produced in the laboratory using 3D printing. After pre-bending the titanium plate according to the contour, the reconstruction model was truncated and the screw trajectory was transferred to form a modified osteotomy and positioning integrative template system (MOPITS). Next, the patient underwent a composite template-guided vascularized fibula flap reconstruction of the mandible. All cases were reviewed for the total operative time and accuracy of surgery.ResultsThe procedures involved 2–4 fibular segments in 15 patients, averaging 3 fibular segments per procedure. The osteotomy error is 1.01 ± 1.02 mm, while the reconstruction angular error is 1.85 ± 1.69°. The preoperative and postoperative data were compared, and both p > 0.05. During the same operation, implant placement was performed on four patients, with an average operative time of 487.25 ± 60.84 min. The remaining malignant tumor patients had an average operative time of 397.18 ± 73.09 min. The average postoperative hospital stay was 12.95 ± 3.29 days.ConclusionsThis study demonstrates the effectiveness of MOPITS in facilitating precise preoperative planning and intraoperative execution of fibula flap reconstruction. MOPITS represents a promising and reliable tool for reconstructive surgery, particularly for inexperienced surgeons navigating the challenges of mandible defect reconstruction.

Overcoming Delayed Diagnosis of Chronic Invasive Fungal Sinusitis in the Immunocompetent Patient: A Case Report

Study Design Case report. Objective To highlight the diagnostic and treatment dilemma associated with chronic invasive fungal sinusitis (CIFS) in the immunocompetent individual. Methods The patient was initially treated for chronic bacterial sinusitis with antibiotic therapy and multiple surgical debridement with no evidence of fungal organisms. Following the completion of the left partial maxillectomy, mucormycosis was finally identified on histopathology, and the appropriate antimicrobial therapy was initiated. During this time, the patient received an interim maxillary obturator for speech and oral function. Following the resolution of CIFS, a computed tomography (CT) of the face was obtained for computer-aided surgical planning for a vascularized fibula flap reconstruction with endosseous dental implants using patient-specific surgical cutting guides and a reconstruction plate. Results Optimal esthetic and functional outcomes were achieved following the placement of the definitive dental prosthesis. The patient remained free of disease and without pain 2 years postoperatively. Conclusions Chronic invasive fungal sinusitis in the immunocompetent patient remains rare; however, delayed diagnosis can lead to inadequate treatment and extensive soft and hard tissue necrosis. Obtaining sufficient tissue sampling is essential for a definitive diagnosis of CIFS. This report demonstrates the challenge in diagnosing CIFS and the importance of the multidisciplinary approach to treat CIFS associated with extensive involvement of the maxilla.

Implant Survival Rate in Mandible Reconstructed with Free Fibula Flaps After Oral Tumors: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

To assess the implant survival rate in mandibles reconstructed with free fibula flap after oral tumor resection after 1 year of prosthetic loading. A secondary objective was to compare immediate or delayed implant placement protocols in this population. Electronic and manual searches were performed on different databases for controlled and prospective trials that indicated implant survival rate. This systematic review followed PRISMA guidelines. Risk of bias was evaluated using Cochrane Collaboration tools. Meta-analyses heterogeneity source assessment and GRADE evaluation were performed among studies with identical follow-ups. Among 305 primarily selected articles, 109 were eligible after reading the title and abstract, and 8 were included after full-text reading: 2 randomized controlled trials and 6 prospective studies comprising 140 patients and 507 implants. Meta-analyses estimated an overall survival rate of 97% (95% CI: 94% to 99%) after 1 year of prosthetic loading. The survival rate was 98% (95% CI: 94% to 100%) with immediate implantation and 97% (95% CI: 90% to 99%) with delayed implantation. Only 3 studies reported radiotherapy treatment, with no real impact on implant survival rate. Overall, 69% of tumors were benign. Implant placement in vascularized fibula flaps in the mandible is recommended for patients undergoing segmental mandibular reconstruction after tumor resection. Within the limitations of this study, no significant difference in survival rates was found between immediate and delayed implant placement.

Functional Reconstruction of Arches of the Foot With Vascularized Fibula Flap.

The skeletal integrity of the foot is as important as the soft tissue coverage of the foot. In this article, we present reconstruction of arches of foot with free fibula flap. Three patients with composite foot defects underwent reconstruction a with vascularized fibula flap. Free fibula flap was used to reconstruct the transverse arch in 2 cases and longitudinal arch in 1 case. The mean follow-up period was 3.2 years. Functional outcome was evaluated with 3-dimensional motion analyses at 12 months postoperatively. No early or late complications were encountered, and all patients were satisfied with both cosmetic appearance and functional aspects of their foot. Fibular bone showed a very healthy course without any fracture, resorption, extrusion, or migration. Three-dimensional motion analyses revealed acceptable gait capability in all cases showing successful restoration of the foot arches. As a conclusion, osteocutaneous free fibula flap can provide functional and durable reconstruction of longitudinal and transverse arches of the foot, especially if preservation of the length or the width of the foot is desired.

The Role of Radiological Vascular Assessment and Computer-Aided Planning in The Outcome of Free Vascularized Fibula Flap for Bone Defects Reconstruction

The Role of Radiological Vascular Assessment and Computer-Aided Planning in The Outcome of Free Vascularized Fibula Flap for Bone Defects Reconstruction

The free vascularized fibula flap for long bone reconstruction in adults — a systematic review and regional centre experience

The free vascularized fibula flap for long bone reconstruction in adults — a systematic review and regional centre experience