A new angle to mandibular reconstruction: the scapular tip free flap
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Updated: May 20, 2026
A Postoperative Evaluation Guideline for Computer-Assisted Reconstruction of the Mandible
Published on: January 28, 2020
John Yoo1, Samuel A Dowthwaite, Kevin Fung
1Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada. john.yoo@lhsc.on.ca
Background:
The purpose of this study was to review our experience with the scapular tip free flap for mandibular reconstruction, describe the surgical approach, and highlight specific clinical applications.
Methods:
A retrospective review of all patients undergoing oromandibular reconstruction using a scapular tip free flap at the London Health Sciences Centre was undertaken. Patient demographics, surgical data, and early outcomes were collated.
Results:
Twenty patients were identified. The majority involved mandibular angle and short segment defects (16 of 20). Average length of the segmental defect was 6.2 cm with the longest measuring 8 cm. A single patient required an osteotomy. Six were revision cases. No vein grafts were required. One complete flap failure occurred.
Conclusions:
The natural scapular angle makes the scapular tip flap ideal for mandibular angle reconstruction. Short bone segments can be harvested with little donor-site morbidity. The long pedicle length may obviate vein grafts.