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With the advent of microsurgery the pedicled flap is considered by many to be an outdated surgical option.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.
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O’Neill, J.P., Shine, N., Eadie, P.A. et al. Free tissue transfer versus pedicled flap reconstruction of head and neck malignancy defects. Ir J Med Sci 179, 337–343 (2010). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11845-010-0468-4
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11845-010-0468-4