Free perforator flaps in head and neck reconstruction

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: The advantage of perforator flaps versus musculocutaneous flaps is the reduced morbidity of the donor site with preservation of the nerves, muscles and deep fascia. We evaluate the reconstruction result of perforator flaps in head and neck region. METHODS: A retrospective review was performed of perforator flap reconstructions for head and neck tumor ablation defects since December of 2003 to May of 2005. There were 14 flaps including 8 anterolateral thigh (ALT) flaps and 6 deep inferior epigastric artery perforator (DIEAP) flaps. Recipient sites were subdivide into oral tongue (n=3), buccal mucosa (n=3), pharyngeal wall (n=3), base of tongue (n=2), skull base (n=1), scalp (n=1) and midface (n=1). RESULTS: The overall free flap success rate was 93% (13/14). One DIEAP flap lost because the draining jugular vein was thrombosed. No complications were observed in the donor site, including wound dehiscence, weakness and hernia. CONCLUSION: Perforator flaps are the new and reliable technique for head and neck surgical defects. Because of the minimum donor site morbidity, the perforator flap may be one of the primary choice in the near future.