Free scapular osteocutaneous flap for mandibular reconstruction

Arch Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg. 1989 Nov;115(11):1334-40. doi: 10.1001/archotol.1989.01860350068017.

Abstract

Seventeen patients, 4 of whom had osteoradionecrosis, underwent mandibular reconstruction with a revascularized scapular osteocutaneous flap. The mean length of revascularized scapular bone used was 10.4 cm. Nine of the 17 flaps healed uneventfully; however, previously irradiated patients had a higher incidence of postoperative complications. There was only 1 flap failure. We found the free revascularized scapular osteocutaneous flap to be reliable and ideal for the reconstruction of large composite defects of the oral cavity.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Combined Modality Therapy
  • Facial Neoplasms / surgery*
  • Humans
  • Mandible / surgery*
  • Mandibular Neoplasms / surgery*
  • Middle Aged
  • Movement
  • Osteotomy
  • Postoperative Care
  • Reoperation
  • Shoulder / physiopathology
  • Surgical Flaps* / adverse effects
  • Vascular Patency