Simultaneous maxillary and mandibular reconstruction with a single Osteocutaneous fibula free flap: A description of three cases

Large defects that comprise both the maxilla and mandible prove to be difficult reconstructive endeavors and commonly require two free tissue transfers. Three cases are presented to discuss an option for simultaneous reconstruction of maxillary and mandibular defects using a single osteocutaneous fibula free flap. The first case describes a 16‐year‐old male with a history of extensive facial trauma sustained in a boat propeller accident resulting in a class IId maxillary and 5 cm mandibular defect status post three failed reconstructive surgeries; the second, a 33‐year‐old male with recurrent rhabdomyosarcoma of the muscles of mastication with resultant hemi‐mandibulectomy and class IId maxillary defects; and lastly, a 48‐year‐old male presenting after a failed scapular free flap to reconstruct defects resulting from a self‐inflicted gunshot wound, which included a 5 cm defect of the right mandibular body and 4.5 cm defect of the inferior maxillary bone. In all cases, a single osteocutaneous fibula free flap was used in two bone segments; one to obturate the maxillary defect and restore alveolar bone and the other to reconstruct the mandibular defect. The most recent patient was able to undergo implantable dental rehabilitation. Postoperatively, the free flaps were viable and masticatory function was restored in all patients during a follow‐up range of 2–4 years.     

Single stage aesthetic and functional reconstruction of composite facial gunshot wound with a chimeric functioning muscle and fibular osseous flap. Case report and review of the literature

The current concepts in the aesthetic and functional reconstruction of complex oromandibular defects are presented with a case of a patient with self‐inflicted gunshot wound to the face. The patient presented with a 6 cm composite mandibular defect; the buccomandibular and suborbital aesthetic zones of the cheek along with the mucosa lining, and the ipsilateral facial musculature were missing. A rapid prototyping model of the facial skeleton was used to assist in preoperative planning. A single stage reconstruction with two free flaps was planned; a free fibula osseous flap to reconstruct the mandibular defect, and a free chimeric ALT/functioning vastus lateralis muscle. The one skin paddle of the chimeric flap reconstructed the buccomandibular/suborbital zones of the cheek, and the other the lining of the mouth. The functional muscle provided reanimation of the corner of the mouth by coapting the muscle's motor nerve to the ipsilateral marginal mandibular nerve. A good facial contour and reanimation of the mouth with oral continence was achieved, and the patient presented with good social and emotional smile. This first report of combined use of a fibula osseous flap with a chimeric functional ALT/Vastus Lateralis flap suggests that the chimeric flap principle may be used in complex aesthetic and functional challenges of severe facial trauma.     

Reconstructive indications of simultaneous double free flaps in the head and neck: A case series and literature review

Extensive and complex defects of the head and neck involving multiple anatomical and functional subunits are a reconstructive challenge. The purpose of this study is to elucidate the reconstructive indications of the use of simultaneous double free flaps in head and neck oncological surgery. This is a retrospective review of 21 consecutive cases of head and neck malignancies treated surgically with resection and reconstruction with simultaneous use of double free flaps. Nineteen of 21 patients had T4 primary tumor stage. Eleven patients had prior history of radiotherapy or chemo‐radiotherapy. Forty‐two free flaps were used in these patients. The predominant combination was that of free fibula osteo‐cutaneous flap with free anterolateral thigh (ALT) fascio‐cutaneous flap. The indications of the simultaneous use of double free flaps can be broadly classified as: (a) large oro‐mandibular bone and soft tissue defects (n = 13), (b) large oro‐mandibular soft tissue defects (n = 4), (c) complex skull‐base defects (n = 2), and (d) dynamic total tongue reconstruction (n = 2). Flap survival rate was 95%. Median follow‐up period was 11 months. Twelve patients were alive and free of disease at the end of the follow‐up. Eighteen of 19 patients with oro‐mandibular and glossectomy defects were able to resume an oral diet within two months while one patient remained gastrostomy dependant till his death due to disease not related to cancer. This patient had a combination of free fibula flap with free ALT flap, for an extensive oro‐mandibular defect. The associated large defect involving the tongue accounted for the swallowing difficulty. Simultaneous use of double free flap aided the reconstruction in certain large complex defects after head and neck oncologic resections. Such combination permits better complex multiaxial subunit reconstruction. An algorithm for choice of flap combination for the appropriate indications is proposed. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microsurgery, 2012.     

The optimum method for reconstruction of complex lateral oromandibular-cutaneous defects

BACKGROUND: Ablation of large intraoral cancers can create extensive through-and-through defects of the lateral face, resulting in loss of external facial skin, the lateral and anterior mandible, and the lateral mouth. Repair requires reconstruction of the lips, mandible, and full-thickness cheek defects. Ideal reconstruction with vascularized composite free flaps requires adequate bone and sufficiently large, yet versatile, skin flaps capable of resurfacing extensive intraoral and external defects. METHODS: A series of 12 patients with large lateral facial-mandibular defects is reviewed. All patients were treated for squamous cell carcinoma except for 1 patient with osteoblastic sarcoma of the mandible. All patients underwent primary reconstruction with various free flap techniques, including 6 scapular free flaps, 2 iliac crest free flaps, 3 free fibula flaps, and 1 radial forearm flap. Attainment of reconstructive goals, free flap survival, and complication rates were assessed. RESULTS: All defects were successfully reconstructed in the primary setting. No flap failures occurred. One venous occlusion was successfully salvaged. No orocutaneous fistulas or postoperative hematomas were noted. CONCLUSION: The reconstructive options for extensive defects of the lateral face and jaw are reviewed with attention to the complex three-dimensional soft tissue requirements. The superiority of the scapular composite flap is emphasized because this single free flap provides two independent and versatile skin paddles of optimal thickness in addition to adequate bone stock.     

A comparison between fibula and iliac crest in mandibular reconstruction

Nowadays the vascularized free fibula flap and the free iliac crest flap are the methods most frequently used to reconstruct the mandible. This is also the case in our clinic. A retrospective nonrandomized study was performed to compare both flaps. The vascularized fibula free flap and the iliac crest free flap were compared in terms of logistics, flap failure, revisionary surgery, donor site morbidity, and recipient site morbidity. No significant differences in flap failure and revision surgery were found between the fibula group and the iliac crest group. Recipient site and donor site complications (major and minor) were significantly less in the fibula group compared to the iliac crest group. In mandibular reconstruction, the free vascularized fibula flap appears to be superior to the free vascularized iliac crest flap in terms of both recipient site and donor site morbidity.     

Reconstruction of bony mandibular and maxillary defects with one single transfer of a free fibula osteocutaneous flap.

One-stage bone reconstruction of both the maxilla and the mandible with a single bone transfer is unusual in microsurgery. The authors report and describe the surgical technique of an original one-stage bone reconstruction of the maxilla and the mandible in a defect caused by a gunshot injury. The reconstruction was performed with a free fibular osteocutaneous flap. A concomitant maxillo-mandibular defect is uncommon. Gunshot injuries and tumours are the two main causes of this defect. The reconstruction of maxillary and mandibular defects can be a surgical challenge. The reconstruction was performed in one stage with the free transfer of a fibular osteocutaneous flap.     

Oromandibular reconstruction for oncological purposes

The authors compared different vascularized bone grafts in 15 patients with different oncological diagnoses that were treated with hemimandibulectomy in 9 patients, total mandibulectomy in 1 patient, resection of the mandible involving the anterior arch and the symphysis in 3 patients, 1 patient who underwent a segmental mandibular resection, and 1 patient in whom the entire hemimandible was reconstructed because of mandibular hypoplasia diagnosed during the resection of a parotid neoplasm. The flaps used included fibular free flaps in 11 patients, iliac crest in 3 patients, and a radial forearm osteocutaneous flap in 1 patient. Two patients had major complications and 1 patient experienced recurrence of the primary tumor. The fibular free flap was the preferred method in this series due to the size of the defect, which in most patients did not require extensive soft-tissue reconstruction, and due to the nature of the bone defect involving the symphysis and condyle in 9 patients. The different vascularized bone grafts provided adequate osseous and soft tissue for oromandibular reconstruction.     

Arthrodesis for ankle osteoarthritis after harvesting of free vascularized fibular bone: a case report

Introduction Although free vascularized fibular bone grafting is a good method for the reconstruction of large bone defects, it might cause morbidity of the donor leg. Progression of ankle osteoarthritis, valgus deformity and instability of the donor leg subsequently leading to arthrodesis has rarely been reported. Materials and methods A 53-year-old man suffered from a left tibial comminuted and Gustilo type IIIb open fracture. A folded free vascularized osteoseptocutaneous flap was harvested from the right fibula and transferred to the left tibial bone defect. After the reconstructive surgery, the patient obtained a solid union of the left tibial shaft uneventfully. Ten years later, he suffered intermittent pain on his right ankle. Plain radiographs revealed progressive tibiotalar osteoarthritis. Right ankle arthrodesis with crossed cannulated screws fixation and osteosynthesis of the fibula to the tibia and talus were performed. However, this procedure failed due to a deep infection and osteomyelitis. A revision of the failed ankle fusion was performed by using a vascularized iliac bone flap to strut the anterolateral aspect of the tibiotalar bone defect. A ventral plate fixation and supplementary onlay bone grafting were applied across the anterior aspect of the tibiotalar joint. At the 2-year follow-up, the patient had no pain and resumed his regular daily activities. Conclusions Harvesting of the fibula may cause longterm ankle osteoarthritis that requires ankle arthrodesis. In revision arthrodesis a ventral plate fixation and vascularized iliac bone flap may be the treatment of choice, neutralizing the large moment due to the long lever arms.     

Reconstruction of large composite buccal defects using single soft tissue flap—analysis of functional outcome

Resection of advanced gingivo‐buccal tumors results in a posterolateral mandibular and large soft tissue defect. Because of large soft tissue requirement, these defects are difficult to reconstruct using a single osteocutaneous flap. A double free flap reconstruction of such defects is recommended. However, double flap may not be feasible in certain situations. In this study, we objectively evaluated functional and cosmetic outcomes following single soft‐tissue flap reconstruction in a group of patients where double flap reconstruction was not feasible. Patient and defect characteristics were obtained from charts. The speech and swallowing functions of patients were prospectively assessed by a dedicated therapist. The cosmetic outcome of reconstruction was evaluated by an independent observer. Fifty‐six patients with large soft tissue and segmental posterolateral mandible defect, reconstructed with anterolateral thigh or pectoralis major flap from May 2009 till December 2010 were included. In this series, none of the flaps were lost; two patients with pectoralis major flap developed partial skin paddle loss. Most of the patients developed mandibular drift; however, majority of these patients had no postoperative trismus. All patients resumed regular or soft solid oral diet. The mean speech intelligibility was more than 70%. Majority of patients had satisfactory cosmetic outcome. The defects were classified into regions resected to develop a reconstruction algorithm for optimal reconstruction using a free or pedicle flap. In conclusion, patients with large oro‐mandibular defect undergoing single soft tissue flap reconstruction have satisfactory functional and cosmetic outcome. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microsurgery, 2013.     

口腔颌面部缺损的修复重建--1 973例临床分析

目的 口腔颌面部缺损游离组织瓣修复方式的对比研究。方法 2001年1月～2004年6月，收集修复重建患者共1973例，分别对其年龄、性别、病种、缺损部位和修复类型的分布情况，游离组织瓣危象的发生率及成功率进行分类统计。采用SAS6．12医用统计软件包进行数据分析。结果 中年（〉45～≤60岁）患者764例，占38.72％；老年（〉60岁）527例，占26．71％；青壮年（〉28～≤45岁）450例，占22．81％；青年（〉14≤28岁）187例，占9．48％，儿童（≤14岁）45例，占2．28％。男1193例，女780例，男、女之比为1．5：1。良、恶性病变之比为1：1．94。缺损部位依次为舌20．63％、下颌骨17．38％、腮腺13．74％、颊12．72％、上颌骨8．16％、口咽7．60％、口底5.68％、其他占14．09％。血管化游离组织瓣修复904例，占45．82％；带蒂组织瓣753例，占38．17％；随意（皮）瓣201例，占10．19％；非血管化骨移植30例，占1．52％；其它方法85例，占4．30％。其中游离前臂皮瓣594例，腓骨肌（皮）瓣143例，带蒂胸大肌（皮）瓣369例，3种组织瓣共1106例，占修复重建总例数的56．06％。游离组织瓣共940个，发生术后危象47个（5．20％），抢救成功30个（63．83％），游离组织瓣总成功率为98．19％。结论 口腔颌面部缺损修复重建患者以中老年、男性、恶性肿瘤为主；舌的缺损修复约占1／5；游离组织瓣的成功率高，是主要的修复方式；前臂皮瓣、腓骨肌（皮）瓣、带蒂胸大肌（皮）瓣成为口腔颌面部缺损修复的常用组织瓣。     

Free flap reconstruction of oral composite defect complicated by intraoperative cardiac arrest: A case report

We report the case of intraoperative cardiac arrest of a patient undergoing free tissue harvest for an oral composite defect and subsequent completion of reconstruction with simultaneous double flaps. A 54‐year‐old man with advanced carcinoma of the tongue underwent near‐total glossectomy, segmental mandiblectomy, and bilateral neck dissections. We planned a fasciocutaneous anterolateral thigh flap to reconstruct the glossectomy defect, and a fibula osteocutaneous flap for the mandible defect. After the fibula flap harvest, the patient suffered a cardiac arrest. After a 4‐min code, the patient regained a sinus rhythm and became hemodynamically stable. We completed the cancer resection and banked the pedicled, osteotomized fibula flap in the lower extremity. We took the patient back to the operating room on postoperative day number 5 for successful reconstruction with simultaneous fibula and ALF flaps. The microvascular surgeon must always be poised to rapidly address intraoperative complications that may critically compromise the success of the free flap or, more seriously, jeopardize the patient's life. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microsurgery, 2013.     

吻合血管的腓骨瓣移植一期重建双侧下颌骨

目的探讨下颌骨巨大肿瘤截骨切除后应用游离腓骨复合组织瓣一期重建双侧下颌骨方法和疗效。方法2000年7月至2002年10月,分别对波及双侧下颌骨的4例巨大成釉细胞瘤、2例牙龈癌施行截骨切除,手术造成跨中线的双侧下颌骨巨大缺损。根据下颌骨缺损的特点,以腓动静脉为血管蒂切取腓骨肌(皮)瓣,经截骨塑形后,用微形钛板将移植骨与双侧下颌骨残端坚固内固定,腓动、静脉与颈部小血管吻合,形成血管化腓骨复合组织瓣一期重建双侧下颌骨。结果6例移植腓骨复合组织瓣全部成活。随访6个月-2年,面下部外形恢复良好,移植腓骨与上颌骨相对位置正常,接受活动义齿修复后咬合关系和咀嚼功能均较满意。结论腓骨复合组织瓣节段性的骨膜供血和骨髓滋养动脉的双重供血特点十分适合塑造成下颌骨的弓状形态,是修复下颌骨巨大肿瘤导致的跨中线双侧下颌骨巨大缺损的理想材料。     

Microsurgical reconstruction of maxillectomy defects: experience of 24 cases

Introduction

The defect complexity and reconstructive options make the maxillary reconstruction a controversial theme and in a constant debate. The maxilla is a fundamental aesthetic and functional structure of the face. Microsurgical vascularized flaps replaced the usage of prosthetic material and pedicled flaps as a “gold standard” for the reconstruction of complex defects following maxillectomy.

Methods

The authors report their experience of 24 maxillectomies with immediate microsurgical reconstruction, performed by the senior author (H.C.) between 1998 and 2011. They evaluate and classify the defects and the reconstructive options according to the classification system as proposed by Cordeiro and Santamaria in 2000, by a patient questionnaire and post-operative surgeon follow-up for the functional (diet, speech, and vision) and aesthetic end results.

Results

There were no flap failures. The main etiology was squamous cell carcinoma and the most used flap was rectus abdominis free flap. Classes I and II were responsible for the cases in which the reconstructive algorithm was not followed. Most patients responded as having a normal diet, a nearly normal speech and unaffected vision. In a score of 1 to 5, the mean score in esthetic given by the patient was 3.62, while the mean score given by the surgeons was 4.13.

Conclusions

Microsurgical reconstruction of maxillectomy defects with free flaps is the best reconstructive option, being the osteomyocutaneous flaps as the gold standard. Although with limited rehabilitation, good functional and aesthetic results are to be expected with myocutaneous flaps. The existence of an algorithm facilitates the classification and systematization of maxillary reconstruction. However, due to defect complexity and large number of reconstructive options, a perfect solution does not exist. The individual assessment of the patient and the defect always provides the best method for the reconstructive planning, mainly when choosing free flaps. Level of Evidence: Level IV, therapeutic study.     

Vertical distraction osteogenesis of fibula transplant for mandibular reconstruction: a case report.

Bone continuity defects in the mandible are caused by tumor surgery, trauma, infection, or osteoradionecrosis. Today, reconstruction of long-span mandibular defects with a free fibular flap is a routine procedure. However the bone height of the mandible after reconstruction is about half that of the dentulous mandible. Therefore, the deficiency in bone height makes implant placement impractical. In our case, because it was necessary to restore the mandibular height, a vertical distraction osteogenesis was performed on the grafted mandible of the patient who was referred to our clinic with a reconstructed mandible owing to a gunshot injury. As a result, the vertical discrepancy between the fibula and the native hemimandible of the patient was corrected. And the placement of dental implants was performed without any complications. In conclusion, we believe that the vertical distraction osteogenesis of free vascularized fibula flaps is a reliable technique that optimizes implant positioning for ideal prosthetic rehabilitation.     

Microvascular flap reconstruction of the mandible: a comparison of bone grafts and bridging plates for restoration of mandibular continuity.

OBJECTIVE: To compare the efficacy of vascularized bone grafts and bridging mandibular reconstruction plates for restoration of mandibular continuity in patients who undergo free flap reconstruction after segmental mandibulectomy.Study design and setting A total of 210 patients underwent microvascular flap reconstruction after segmental mandibulectomy. The rate of successful restoration of mandibular continuity in 151 patients with vascularized bone grafts was compared to 59 patients with soft tissue free flaps combined with bridging plates. RESULTS: Mandibular continuity was restored successfully for the duration of the follow-up period in 94% of patients who received bone grafts compared with 92% of patients with bridging mandibular reconstruction plates. This difference was not statistically significant. In patients who received bone grafts, most cases of reconstructive failure occurred during the perioperative period and were due to patient death or free flap thrombosis. In patients who received bridging plates, all instances of reconstructive failure were delayed for several months and were due to hardware extrusion or plate fracture. CONCLUSIONS: Vascularized bone-containing free flaps are preferred for reconstruction of most segmental mandibulectomy defects in patients undergoing microvascular flap reconstruction. However, use of a soft tissue flap with a bridging mandibular reconstruction plate is a reasonable alternative in patients with lateral oromandibular defects when the nature of the defect favors use of a soft tissue free flap. SIGNIFICANCE: Both bone grafts and bridging plates represent effective methods of restoring mandibular continuity following segmental mandibulectomy, with the former being the preferred technique for patients undergoing microvascular reconstruction.     

Free vascularized osteocutaneous flap from scapula to the tibia

Summary Microvascular transfer of a free vascularized osteocutaneous flap from the scapula to the tibia is presented. The patient had a 10 cm tibial bone defect and also required overlying soft tissue reconstruction. A scapular osteocutaneous flap was successfully transferred to the proximal tibial defect. No complications were seen during an 18 month follow-up. Although the contralateral fibula is a popular choice for tibial reconstruction, if it is not available, the free vascularized scapular osteocutaneous flap may be an alternative choice of treatment.     

游离胸脐皮瓣与单侧外固定支架联合应用修复小腿严重创伤

目的探讨应用吻合血管游离胸脐皮瓣与单侧外固定支架联合修复小腿严重创伤的疗效。方法应用单侧外固定架固定胫骨骨折,重建肢体血运,延期应用吻合血管的游离胸脐皮瓣修复小腿软组织缺损17例。结果17例经2年~3年4个月随访,全部骨折均愈合。无感染发生,2例皮瓣出现小面积组织坏死,经换药后治愈,其余皮瓣成活良好。结论应用游离胸脐皮瓣与单侧外固定支架联合应用修复小腿严重创伤是有效的方法。     

Fibula osteoseptocutaneous flap with a variant perforator and peroneal artery arising from the anterior tibial artery

Since the report of the first cases of vascularized free fibula graft for treatment of open fracture of the tibia and fibula in 1975, there have been many other reports of the use of vascularized free osteocutaneous fibula flaps for reconstruction of the mandible or lower leg. Usually, these flaps have a single pedicle composed of the peroneal artery, to supply the fibula with septocutaneous or musculocutaneous branches arising from the peroneal artery to supply the lateral skin of the leg. Although some authors have reported variant perforators, there have been no reports of the peroneal artery arising from the anterior tibial artery and perforator arising from the posterior tibial artery. This is the first report of a variant of the peroneal artery and perforator using a vascularized free osteocutaneous fibula flap.     

Reconstruction of lateral through and through oro‐mandibular defects following oncological resections

Background: Resections of oromandibular squamous cell carcinoma involving lateral mandible, oral cavity, and the skin, lead to composite oromandibular defects that can be approached in several ways depending on the extension of the bone defect, of the soft tissue and cutaneous resection, the patient's general status and the prognosis. Purpose of the study is to evaluate retrospectively functional and esthetic outcome obtained with different reconstructive technique employed. Methods: A retrospective evaluation of 42 patients has been performed. The study population consisted of 24 males (57.1%) and 18 females (42.9%), ranging in age from 25 to 81 years (mean, 62.6 years). The primary location of the tumor was the mandibular alveolar crest (18 cases), retromolar trigon (9), floor of the mouth (8), cheek (5), and oral commissure (2). For reconstruction a single free flap technique was used eight times; a double free flap technique, seven times; free and locoregional flap association, 25 times; and a single locoregional flap and two associated locoregional flaps, one time each. Postoperative follow‐up ranged from 12 to 144 months. Final results were evaluated with regards to deglutition, speech, oral competence, and esthetic outcome. Results: When free bone‐containing flaps or two free flaps technique were used, the functional results were better (normal diet, 67%–71%; good oral competence, 100%–71%; good or intelligible speech, 100%–86%). When free and locoregional flap association was chosen, the esthetic results were best (excellent, 76%; acceptable 24%; poor 0%). The worst results were obtained with the use of a single free soft tissue flap and with the use of single or double locoregional flap technique. Conclusion: Bone reconstruction of the lateral mandible is indicated whenever possible. In elderly or poor prognosis patients acceptable results can be achieved with free soft tissue flaps techniques. When the defect involves different structures of the oral cavity, the best results are provided by the association of two free flaps. Finally, the association of free and locoregional flaps is a good option for external coverage reconstruction. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc. Microsurgery 30:517–525, 2010.     

Severe trismus secondary to periosteal osteogenesis after fibula free flap maxillary reconstruction

BACKGROUND: Fibula free tissue transfer is routinely used for reconstruction of bony defects in the head and neck. During flap preparation, well-vascularized periosteum is left adjacent to the proximal vascular pedicle. It is known that periosteum can have significant osteogenic potential in the proper settings. Complications related to periosteal osteogenesis of a fibula free flap pedicle have not been previously reported. CASE HISTORY: A 12-year-old girl with a history of squamous cell carcinoma of the maxilla underwent delayed fibula free flap reconstruction of a maxillary defect. The patient had severe trismus develop postoperatively and was found to have osteogenesis along the vascular pedicle. This bone formed a solid bridge from the maxilla to the mandible. Two resections were required, which included excision of the vascular pedicle, to eliminate further osteogenesis and resolve the patient's trismus. CONCLUSIONS: The potential for periosteal osteogenesis does exist with fibula free tissue transfer and can have significant consequences. Potential promoters of osteogenesis should be identified and if possible altered in certain clinical scenarios to prevent complications from new bone growth.