Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 16, 2026
Porcine As a Training Module for Head and Neck Microvascular Reconstruction
Published on: September 29, 2018
Fasciocutaneous and jejunal free flaps for circumferential hypopharyngeal defect reconstruction: A 22-year
Anthony M Tonsbeek1, Caroline A Hundepool1, Merel M Smit2
1Department of Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
Background:
It remains unclear whether a tubed fasciocutaneous or jejunal free flap (FCFF and JFF) is preferable for reconstruction of circumferential pharyngolaryngoesophageal defects.
Methods:
All consecutive patients with circumferential pharyngolaryngoesophageal defects reconstructed with an FCFF or JFF between 2000 and 2022 were included. Outcomes of interest were rates of fistulas, strictures, and donor-site complications.
Results:
In total, 112 patients were included (35 FCFFs and 77 JFFs). Fistula and stricture rates were significantly lower following JFF compared to FCFF reconstructions, with 12% versus 34% (p = 0.008) and 29% versus 49% (p = 0.04), respectively. Severe donor-site complications leading to surgical intervention or ICU admittance only occurred after JFF reconstructions (18%, p = 0.007).
Conclusions:
The high fistula and stricture rates in FCFF reconstructions and the rate of severe abdominal complications in JFF reconstructions illustrate inherent procedure-specific advantages and disadvantages. Relative pros and cons should be carefully weighed when tailoring treatments to the individual needs of patients.
