A review of 46 consecutive free fibula flap transfers for head and neck reconstruction

Objective To review 46 consecutive free fibula flap transfers for head and neck reconstruction in a new microsurgery unit.Methods Forty-six consecutive free fibula flap transfers performed from Jume 21 1999 to August 4 2000 were reviewed.Data concerning the operation included date of surgery,defect description and site,stage and histology of tumor,design of free fibula flap,recipient vessel and type of anastomosis used and complications.Results Among the 46 free fibula flaps,41 were used for mandibular reconstruction,5 were used for maxillary reconstruction.Forty-four of the 46 flaps survived completely,with the overall success rate of 95.7 %.One flap was changed into free fibula graft because of injury of the vessels,and another one flap was lost because of venous thrombosis.The overall complication rate was 21.7% .The vessel thrombosis rate was 8.7% and the flap salvage rate was 50%.Conclusion Free fibula flap is versatile and reliable for reconstruction of head and neck defects.It can be used for both mandibular and maxillary reconstruction.