Irish Journal of Medical Science

, Volume 179, Issue 3, pp 337–343 | Cite as

Free tissue transfer versus pedicled flap reconstruction of head and neck malignancy defects

  • J. P. O’Neill
  • N. Shine
  • P. A. Eadie
  • E. Beausang
  • C. Timon
Original Article
First Online:
Received:
Accepted:

Abstract

Background

With the advent of microsurgery the pedicled flap is considered by many to be an outdated surgical option.

Aims

To explore the relationship between flap survival and pre-morbid risk factors, conduct a comparative analysis of flap and systemic morbidities and complete a cosmesis and functionality assessment for oral and oropharyngeal reconstruction patients.

Methods

114 patients, over a 13-year period, who had a one-stage reconstructive procedure employing the pectoralis major myocutaneous flap (PMMF) or radial forearm-free flap (RFFF).

Results

Variables, including age, smoking and radiation exposure were not statistically significant predictors of flap survival probability. Atelectasis was a significant post-op finding of RFFF patients. Flap dehiscence of >50% was a significant morbidity of PMMF. No statistical difference in cosmetic deformity, diet and socialisation was noted.

Conclusions

Pectoralis major myocutaneous flap remains an enduring and safe flap; however, the RFFF has markedly improved speech performance over the PMMF.

Keywords

Pectoralis major myocutaneous flap Radial forearm free flap Microsurgery Oral Oropharyngeal Cosmesis Function 
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Copyright information

© Royal Academy of Medicine in Ireland 2010

Authors and Affiliations

  • J. P. O’Neill
    • 1
  • N. Shine
    • 1
  • P. A. Eadie
    • 2
  • E. Beausang
    • 2
  • C. Timon
    • 1
  1. 1.Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck SurgerySt James HospitalDublinIreland
  2. 2.Department of Plastic SurgerySt James HospitalDublinIreland

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