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The thoracoacromial/cephalic vascular system for microvascular anastomoses in the vessel-depleted neck
Jeffrey R Harris1, E Lueg, E Genden
1Department of Surgery, 2D, University of Alberta, WC Mackenzie Centre, 8440 112 St, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada T6G 2B7. jharris@powersurfr.com
Objective:
To review our experience with use of the thoracoacromial/cephalic (TAC) system in the free flap reconstruction of complicated head and neck defects.
Design:
Case series.
Setting:
Tertiary care referral center.
Population:
A consecutive sample of 11 patients requiring free flap reconstruction of head and neck defects using the TAC system for microvascular anastomoses was identified by medical chart review.
Intervention:
Free flap reconstruction of complicated defects of the head and neck using the TAC vascular system for microvascular anastomoses.
Main Outcome Measures:
Free flap survival and microvascular thrombosis.
Results:
Of 11 patients using TAC anastomoses, all had complete survival of free flaps. No complications related to anastomotic failure were identified.
Conclusions:
The TAC system provides a reliable source of undisturbed vessels when cervical vessels are unusable or absent.