INDICATIONS OF VARIOUS FREE AND PEDICLED FLAPS IN HEAD AND NECK RECONSTRUCTION

Since the microvascular tissue transfer has been introduced in the reconstructive surgery of the head and neck the question arises repeatedly which free transplant should be favoured and which advantages exist to pedicled flaps. Based on our experiences in 243 reconstructions we discuss the advantages and disadvantages of different operative techniques and their differential indications. Using free as well as pedicled flaps, reconstructions can be performed individually and the decision for a transplant depends on localisation, size and depth of the defect. In contrast to conventional techniques, like the deltopectoral flap, which we performed a decade ago, both new principles allow a one-stage procedure, which reduces the period of hospitalisation and improves the quality of life for the patients. The advantages of free tissue transfer can be seen especially in the reconstruction of the upper digestive tract after laryngopharyngectomy. The existing form of the jejunum segment like a tube allows an easy one-stage reconstruction, as well as better functional and aesthetic results. The radial forearm flap is a nearly ideal transplant in the anterior oral cavity because of the mechanical stability. In contrast the jejunum patch is more vulnerable and less qualified especially when fitting a prosthesis. In the posterior oral cavity we prefer the jejunum patch because it allows more mobility of the tongue. Deep defects, for instance after glossectomy, should be reconstructed with a free latissimus-dorsi-flap or a pedicled myocutaneous pectoralis major flap. In contrast to free tissue transfer, pedicled flaps have the advantage that the difficult technique of microanastomosis is avoided, which reduces the complication rate and the operation time. In our opinion the main indications for pedicled flaps concern secondary reconstructions after irradiation and/ or surgery.