Simultaneous transfer of free fibula and radial forearm flaps for complex oromandibular reconstruction

Several composite free flaps have been described for use in oromandibular reconstruction. Particularly in extensive defects, there may be no single flap which combines sufficient bone stock with thin, pliable, soft tissue. By combining two free flaps, the best osseous and soft-tissue elements may be independently selected, to yield a result superior to that achievable with one free flap alone. Thirteen patients underwent reconstruction of extensive oromandibular defects using the free fibula for mandibular reconstruction and the free radial forearm flap for oral lining and soft-tissue reconstruction. Mandibular defects were usually extensive, involving over half of the mandibular contour. Soft-tissue defects were all complex and involved multiple surfaces of the oral, oropharyngeal, and nasopharyngeal mucosa. All patients were operated on in the supine position by two surgical teams (extirpative and reconstructive) working simultaneously. Each free flap was supplied by its own set of recipient vessels. The mean total operating time was 12 hr. Postoperative courses were without mortality or significant morbidity. There were no flap failures. Soft-tissue and osseous reconstructions healed completely. Aesthetic contour was judged good to excellent in 11 patients. Soft and solid diets were achieved in five patients, with six patients on a purée or liquid diet. Oral competence was present in 11 patients. Speech was excellent to good in six patients and fair in four patients. The mean follow-up has averaged 18 months. Three patients have died of recurrent disease, and two of unrelated causes. The remaining eight patients are currently free of disease. In combining the free flaps, the best tissue for bone and soft-tissue reconstruction was selected independently. The two-team approach avoided excessive operating time and operating team fatigue. The added degree of freedom provided by the two free flaps with their independent pedicles made insetting easier, compared to working within the limitations of a single composite flap. For extensive oromandibular defects, the simultaneous free fibula and radial forearm free flaps provided ideal osseous and soft-tissue reconstruction, with acceptable operating times and reasonable functional results.