Abstract
Background: The osteocutaneous radial forearm free flap (RFFF) is a versatile flap primarily used to reconstruct composite defects involving the mandible. The purpose of this study was to describe our experience with this flap for nonmandible reconstruction. Methods: All patients undergoing nonmandible osseous reconstruction with free-tissue transfer were reviewed. Patients with osteocutaneous RFFF reconstructions were evaluated. The retrospective review of all osteocutaneous RFFFs was performed from 1998 to 2014. Results: One hundred forty-two nonmandible osseous reconstructions were performed. Twenty-five patients underwent nonmandible osteocutaneous RFFF reconstruction. Eleven patients failed previous nonmicrovascular reconstruction. Reconstruction was for defects of the: palatomaxillary complex (n = 15), orbitomaxillary complex (n = 4), nasomaxillary complex (n = 4), larynx (n = 1), and clavicle (n = 1). There were no flap compromises. Postoperative complications included: 2 partial intraoral dehiscences; 1 recipient-site infection; and 1 seroma. Eight reconstructions required secondary procedures to improve functional and/or cosmetic outcomes. Conclusion: The osteocutaneous RFFF is a robust flap that can be used to reconstruct composite defects involving bone and soft-tissue beyond the mandible.
Original language | English (US) |
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Pages (from-to) | 1888-1893 |
Number of pages | 6 |
Journal | Head and Neck |
Volume | 39 |
Issue number | 9 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - Sep 2017 |
Keywords
- free tissue transfer
- nonmandible reconstruction
- osteocutaneous radial forearm free flap
- osteocutaneous reconstruction
- radial forearm free flap
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Otorhinolaryngology