Revascularized free scapular flaps in mandibular reconstruction. Report of 93 cases (April 1997 - October 2009)

The aim of the present article is to demonstrate the relevance of revascularized free scapular flap in mandibular reconstruction in oncological cervicofacial salvage surgery. We will discuss the advantages and the disadvantages, indications and contraindications, together with possible complications and sequelae for this type of surgical flap.

Retrospective study of 93 revascularized free scapular flaps used to reconstruct segmental substance defects in the mandible from April 1997 to October 2009 (in 91 patients). All patients benefited from 10 months to 12 years follow-up surgical and functional results. Functional assessment following anatomic site restoration focused on the quality of feeding and deglutition.

The anatomical success rate was 94.63% (5 complete necroses out of 93 flaps). Results were considered to be good (normal or close to normal function for feeding and deglutition) in the majority of patients (83% at 6 months, 91% at 18 months). On the donor site: Functional sequelae were moderate when post-operative reeducation was correctly performed.

Vascularized free scapular flap bone graft is very interesting for the reconstruction of mandibular discontinuity, composite (soft tissue and cutaneous resection) or exclusively osseous defects (not in excess of 13 cm), secondary to oncologic or osteoradionecrotic resections.