Batting .500: experience with the fibular free flap in the achondroplastic patient.
OBJECTIVE
To describe the use of the fibular free flap in the achondroplastic patient and to report the potential pitfalls of free flap surgery on this group of patients.


METHODS
Retrospective chart analysis.


METHODS
We reviewed our experience with two fibular free flaps in this rare situation.


RESULTS
This is the largest series of fibular free flaps reported on the achondroplastic patient. An acute adrenal event resulted in hypothermia and hypotension and ultimately led to the failure of our first reconstructive attempt. Corrective measures were taken during the secondary reconstruction to prevent these systemic issues from coming into play, which ultimately led to a successful free fibular transfer.


CONCLUSIONS
Free fibular transfer is possible for facial reconstruction in the achondroplastic patient, and success can be improved if measures are taken to prevent systemic complications of hypothermia and hypotension in the case of an acute adrenal event.
Division of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Department of Surgery, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia.
S Mark
SM
Taylor
Jonathan R B
JR
Trites
Joseph G
JG
Nasser
D000130:Achondroplasia / Q000473:pathology* / Q000601:surgery*; D000303:Adrenal Cortex Diseases / Q000209:etiology / Q000517:prevention & control; D005360:Fibula / Q000637:transplantation*; D006801:Humans; D007022:Hypotension / Q000209:etiology / Q000517:prevention & control; D007035:Hypothermia / Q000209:etiology / Q000517:prevention & control; D008297:Male; D008334:Mandible / Q000473:pathology* / Q000601:surgery*; D008875:Middle Aged; D011183:Postoperative Complications; D019651:Plastic Surgery Procedures; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D013524:Surgical Flaps