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Published on: October 14, 2013
Implantation of Squamous Cell Carcinoma in a Free Flap Donor Site
Priscilla Pichardo1, Nicholas Purdy1, Thorsen Haugen1
1Department of Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery, Geisinger Medical Center, Danville, PA, USA.
Introduction:
It is well known that malignant cells can be implanted at distant donor sites due to iatrogenic surgical contamination. Only a small number of reports, however, have been published describing this.
Case Presentation:
We present a case of oral cavity Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC) reconstructed with a radial forearm free flap in which SCC developed in the subcutaneous tissues beneath the donor incision site 6 months after surgery.
Management:
The implanted tumor was excised and the field was subsequently treated with radiation. The patient remains disease-free on follow-up.
Discussion:
We present the second report of tumor implanted in a free flap donor site. Additionally, we discuss the risks of tumor implantation, review the literature, and make recommendations to avoid this complication.
