Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 3, 2025
Porcine As a Training Module for Head and Neck Microvascular Reconstruction
Published on: September 29, 2018
Flow-Through Flaps as a Robust Method for Advanced Free Flap Reconstruction in the Head and Neck: A
Eric V Mastrolonardo1, Sarah Sussman2, Pablo Llerena1
1Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA.
Background:
Flow-through flaps (FTFs) are an advanced technique in which a free flap is anastomosed to the pedicle of another free flap to reconstruct extensive head and neck defects when recipient vessels are scarce.
Methods:
A multi-institutional cohort of FTFs used for head and neck reconstruction were reviewed. For comparison, FTF outcomes were compared to free flaps that required vein grafts (VG) to reach distant recipient vessels.
Results:
A total of forty-two patients underwent surgery using a FTF configuration, including 32 simultaneous and 10 sequential FTFs. There were no instances of flap failure compared to a 7% flap failure rate in the VG group (n = 54). The overall postoperative complication rate was 28% compared to a 46% complication rate in the VG group (p = 0.093).
Conclusion:
FTFs are a reliable option for reconstruction of extensive head and neck defects when recipient blood vessel availability is limited.
