[Simultaneous double free flap transfer for extensive defects in head and neck region: a review of 33 consecutive cases].
OBJECTIVE
To analyze the rationale and feasibility of double free flap transfers for reconstruction of extensive head and neck defects.


METHODS
Thirty-three consecutive cases of double free flap transfers for extensive head and neck defects from March 2000 to January 2002 were reviewed. Data concerning the operation included date of surgery, defect description and site, choice and combination of flap, recipient vessel and complications.


RESULTS
The fibula osteocutaneous-radial forearm fasciocutaneous flap combination was most commonly used (n = 23), followed by the fibula osteocutaneous-rectus abdominis myocutaneous flap (n = 6) and radial forearm-rectus abdominis myocutaneous flap(n = 4). The complete flap survival rate was 97.0% (64 of 66 flaps).


CONCLUSIONS
In selected cases, the double free flap procedure for reconstruction of massive head and neck defect is justified and effective, and greatly improve the quality of life for these patients.
Mao
Chi
C
Department of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, Peking University School of Stomatology, Beijing 100081, China. maochi@2911.net
Yu
Guang-yan
GY
Peng
Xin
X
Guo
Chuan-bin
CB
Huang
Min-xian
MX
Zhang
Yi
Y
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D005260:Female; D006085:Graft Survival; D006258:Head and Neck Neoplasms / Q000601:surgery*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D019651:Plastic Surgery Procedures / Q000379:methods*; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D016038:Skin Transplantation; D013524:Surgical Flaps / Q000098:blood supply*