Influence of irradiation and oncologic surgery on head and neck microsurgical reconstructions

Despite the refinement of microsurgical techniques, microsurgical free flap transfer in patients with a history of previous radiotherapy, neck dissection or free flaps remains a challenge in oncologic reconstructive surgery. Previous studies on the prognostic factors for postoperative complications have been largely retrospective and shown conflicting results. Our aim was to design a prospective study to identify negative outcome predictors of free flap surgery in previously treated oral cancer patients. Prospective study including all patients who required microsurgical free flap transfer for reconstruction of the oral cavity between July of 2007 and June of 2010 with subset analysis of those cases in whom previous surgical or nonsurgical oncological treatment for head and neck cancer had been carried out. A total of 360 free flaps were performed in 358 patients, of whom 61 had previous neck dissection and 58 had undergone radiation therapy. Operation time was significantly found to be longer in irradiated patients. The need for microsurgical revision, postoperative wound infection and free flap loss were significantly associated with the ASA score and a previous neck dissection. Wound infection was seen significantly more often after radiotherapy. Previous neck dissections and radiotherapy as well as the ASA score are significant negative predictors for success in free flap transfer. For patients with prior oncologic treatments in their medical history, we recommend detailed preoperative assessment of the vascular status and an intensified postoperative care to reduce complication rates to improve outcome in oncologic reconstructive surgery.