Prediction of outcomes in 150 patients having microvascular free tissue transfers to the head and neck

Medical records of 150 patients who had undergone microvascular free tissue transfer to the head and neck (85% for malignancy) were retrospectively assessed to identify predictors of postoperative outcomes and complications. 5% of flaps failed and 20% required re-exploration. Surgical and medical problems occurred in 23% and 67% patients respectively; mortality was 4.7%. 132 records were analysed by logistic regression. Mortality and stroke were commoner in patients with previous myocardial infarction or steroid medication. Chest infection was commoner in men and with increasing age. Hypoxaemia was associated with bronchodilator therapy. Thromboembolism was commoner in patients on diuretics. Nutritional problems were more frequent in patients on opioids, with low weight or hypertension. Donor site infection was related to haemoglobin concentration, cerebrovascular disease, hypertension, opioid consumption or previous radiotherapy. Recipient site infection was associated with hypertension. Flap failure was related to nitrate or bronchodilator treatment. Re-exploration was associated with opioid or bronchodilator therapy. It was concluded that several factors predicted complications and death following microvascular surgery to the head and neck.