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Summary Background With the advent of new techniques, foot salvage is feasible following talus oncological resection. As the reconstruction aims to achieve a pain-free, stable ankle for ambulation, biological limb reconstruction is the best option. This case series will evaluate the primary indications, complications, and functional outcomes of the reconstructed talus and highlighting the technical aspects of the surgery with a novel technique of triangular double-barrel free fibula flap. Methods We performed a retrospective case note review of patients undergoing foot salvage surgeries and primary talus reconstruction with double-barrel free fibula flaps between 2009 and 2019. Patient demographics, aetiologies, operative details, complications, and outcomes were analysed. All patients underwent the same talar reconstruction technique whereby a wide-based triangular framework was created from two bony struts of the osteotomized fibula. The Musculoskeletal Tumour Society (MSTS) scoring system was used to analyse the short- to mid-term functional outcomes. Results Four consecutive patients with aggressive benign and malignant tumours were identified. They consist of three males and one female, with a median age of 32 (range 27–39). Patients were followed up for a median duration of 60 months (range 24–132). Two flaps were complicated with venous thromboses; however, all were salvageable following re-explorations. All patients achieved solid bony fusion with good functional and aesthetic outcomes. The median MSTS score was 74.5% (range 66–76). No donor site morbidity and local recurrence were reported. Conclusion The triangular double-barrel free fibular flap is a good option for limb salvage following total talus resection, with good short- to mid-term functional and aesthetic outcomes.

Total and subtotal sternectomy oncological defects can result in large deficits in the chest wall, disrupting the biomechanics of respiration. Reviewing the current literature involving respiratory function and rib motion after sternectomy, autologous rigid reconstruction was determined to provide the optimal reconstructive option. We describe a novel technique for sternal defect reconstruction utilizing a double-barrel, longitudinally oriented, vascularized free fibula flap associated with rib titanium plates fixation. Our reconstructive approach was able to deliver a physiological reconstruction, providing rigid support and protection while allowing articulation with adjacent ribs and preservation of chest wall mechanics.

Introduction: Ameloblastoma is a benign neoplasm of odontogenic epithelial origin occurring more commonly in the mandibular posterior region and rarely in the maxilla. About 50-60% of ameloblastomas occur in the mandibular ramus area, while only 10% is seen in mandibular anterior region. Ameloblastomas are slow growing, locally invasive, rarely malignant tumours affecting the jaw. Mostly commonly seen in the 4th-6th decade of life affecting males more commonly than females. The resection of the mandibular segment without adequate reconstruction leads to functional as well as esthetic loss. Case Report: Here we describe two case reports of ameloblastoma with segmental resection and reconstruction using fibula graft. Discussion & Review of Literature: Avascular fibula graft with its high bone density, ease of access to harvest, and tendency to show less resorption helps to achieve satisfactory esthetic contour and function in reconstruction of segmental defects of mandible Conclusion: This article describes two case reports of ameloblastoma with segmental resection and reconstruction using fibula graft along with review of literature.

At the current stage of reconstructive surgery development, perforator flaps have confidently taken a priority place when choosing a method for wound defects cover. However, wounds with significant volume defects of both soft tissues and the bone skeleton remain especially difficult challenges for the surgeon. The desired result of such defects repair could be a technique that allows surgeons to carry out an effective reconstruction in one step.The paper describes in detail the surgical and vascular anatomy, design, preoperative preparation and surgical technique for the mobilization of the free vascularized fibula perforator flap containing a fragment of the bone di-aphysis. Clinical examples of orthoplastic reconstruction in different locations are presented.The authors conclude that free fibula flap allows effective one-stage reconstruction of extensive wounds after trauma or oncological resections, including extensive defects of the skeleton, without significant loss of support function in the donor area. A chimera-style composite flap, which contains soft tissues and a fragment of the fibula, can already be called as a “workhorse" for orthoplastic reconstruction on the lower extremities and in the field of maxillofacial surgery.

BACKGROUND In free osteofasciocutaneous fibula flaps, secondary donor sites are avoided using one of three local closure methods: full-thickness skin grafts (FTSGs), split-thickness skin grafts (STSGs), or flaps. This systemic review aimed to evaluate the differences in outcomes among the three groups of closure methods used for free fibula flap defects. METHODS In accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, we systematically searched the PubMed and Web of Science medical databases from inception to January 2021 for articles focused on closure of the free fibula flap donor site using the lower leg area-local skin graft or flap-that mentioned the free fibula flap defect size, and/or complications of the donor site. Study characteristics, free fibula flap size, and short-term complication rates were extracted for analysis. The pooled complication rates and confidence intervals were calculated based on the random-effects model. RESULTS Eleven studies were included in the qualitative synthesis, and ten studies were included in the quantitative synthesis (meta-analysis). The FTSG (n = 79, 52.3%) was the most widely used method, while both STSG (n = 36, 23.8%) and flap (n = 36, 23.8%) were the least commonly used methods. The mean free fibula flap length and width were largest for the flap method (11.5 ± 2.5 cm and 6.0 ± 1.8 cm), and all closure methods were used for free fibula flap widths ≥3 cm. Rates of partial and complete necrosis were highest for the FTSG method (20.3%, p = .95, I2 = 0%) and lowest for the flap method (12.7%, p = .95, I2 = 0%). CONCLUSION This systemic review indicated that any closure method could be adapted for a free fibula flap width ranging from 3 to 9 cm, and the flap method was associated with the lowest rate of short-term complications.

To assess if preoperative angiography of the lower extremity is necessary to detect abnormalities that alter operative planning of a free fibula flap (FFF). The secondary objective is to determine whether abnormalities are identified on physical examination.A retrospective case series of patients receiving preoperative lower extremity angiography for FFF was performed. Between November 2004 and July 2016, patients assessed for FFF reconstruction by a single surgeon were reviewed. Outcomes analyzed were preoperative physical examination, angiography findings, changes in operative plan, and perioperative complications including flap failure and limb ischemia. Level of agreement between physical examination and angiography findings was analyzed.A total of 132 consecutive patients were assessed for FFF, of which 70 met the inclusion criteria. Mean age was 60.9 (range: 22-88) years old. All patients underwent aortic angiogram runoff, except for 2 who received computed tomography angiography. The surgical plan was altered based on angiography findings in 9 (12.9%) patients, and 7 (77.8%) of these cases had a normal physical examination. A further 6 (8.6%) patients had physical examination findings precluding the use of FFF, whereas imaging demonstrated the contrary. Physical examination demonstrated low predictability of aberrant vascular anatomy, with a sensitivity of 22.2%. There were no limb ischemia complications.Routine preoperative angiography of the lower extremity for all patients being evaluated for FFF is important to ensure safety and success of the procedure. Physical examination alone is insufficient to detect vascular abnormalities that may result in limb or flap compromise.Évaluer s’il faut procéder à une angiographie préopératoire de l’extrémité inférieure pour déceler des anomalies qui perturbent le plan opératoire en vue du prélèvement d’un lambeau libre de la fibula (ou péroné, LLF). L’objectif secondaire consiste à déterminer si des anomalies sont décelées à l’examen physique.Les chercheurs ont examiné une série rétrospective de cas ayant subi une angiographie préopératoire de l’extrémité inférieure en vue du prélèvement d’un LLF. Ils ont examiné les patients évalués en vue d’une reconstruction par LLF effectuée par un même chirurgien entre novembre 2004 et juillet 2016. Ils ont analysé l’examen physique préopératoire, les résultats de l’angiographie, les modifications au plan opératoire et les complications périopératoires, y compris l’échec du lambeau et l’ischémie du membre. Enfin, ils ont analysé le degré de convergence entre l’examen physique et les résultats de l’angiographie.Les chercheurs ont évalué 132 patients en vue du prélèvement d’un LLF, dont 70 respectaient les critères d’inclusion. Ils avaient un âge moyen de 60,9 ans (plage de 22 à 88 ans). Tous les patients ont subi une angiographie aortique détaillée, sauf deux qui ont subi une angiographie par tomodensitométrie. Le plan opératoire a été modifié en raison des observations angiographiques chez neuf patients (12,9 %), et l’examen physique était normal pour sept d’entre eux (77,8 %). Chez six autres patients (8,6 %), l’examen physique écartait le prélèvement du LLF, mais l’imagerie démontrait le contraire. L’examen physique a établi la faible prévisibilité des aberrations de l’anatomie vasculaire, selon une sensibilité de 22,2 %. Aucune complication ischémique des membres n’a été observée.Il est important de procéder à une angiographie préopératoire systématique de l’extrémité inférieure chez tous les patients évalués en vue du prélèvement d’un LLF pour garantir la sécurité et la réussite de l’intervention. L’examen physique seul ne suffit pas pour déceler les anomalies vasculaires susceptibles d’entraîner une atteinte du membre ou du lambeau.

The purpose of this retrospective study was to assess the feasibility of using a free fibula flap (FFF) for reconstruction of the alveolar region of the severely atrophic mandible, by determining bone stability after dental implant insertion and prosthetic rehabilitation in a series of eight female patients aged 36-65 years. Dental implant insertion was performed 3-4 months after reconstruction. Prosthetic loading was performed 3-4 months after implant insertion. The height of the reconstructed mandible after surgery was 21.20±1.87mm, with an increase of 8.80±1.71mm from the preoperative height. The height of the FFF immediately after reconstruction was 11.24±1.10mm; this showed a vertical loss of 0.99±0.52mm (8.79%) and maintenance of 91.21% of the initial height at a mean 14 months post-reconstruction. Applying the Wical and Swoope formula to estimate the original mandibular body height, it was found that the difference between this calculated height (21.17±3.76mm) and the reconstructed height (21.20±1.87mm) was only 0.03±3.17mm (0.14%). An overall insignificant decrease of 0.46±1.14 cm3 in FFF volume had occurred at 3-4 months after dental implant functional loading, while in two cases an increase in volume was found (1.22cm3 and 1.71cm3). The good and stable results obtained show that the FFF may be used to reconstruct the whole mandibular alveolar region, with the best possible outcomes.

Objective: To present the early and late outcomes related to donor site morbidity of Free Fibular Flap. Study Design: Prospective observational study. Place and Duration of Study: Plastic surgery department, Combined Military Hospital Rawalpindi, from Jan 2009 to Jan 2020. Methodology: In total 361 patients were enrolled for the study through consecutive purposive sampling. All patients requiring free fibula flap for reconstruction of the defect were included in the study. However, the patients with Diabetes Mellitus, Smoking or peripheral vascular disease were excluded from the study. The patients were asked to visit on second week and then at three months for late outcomes. The results were entered SPSS-24 for analysis and interpretation of data. Results: Out of total 361 patients enrolled for study 293 (81.16%) were male and 68 (18.83%) were female. The men age was 51.43 years SD 14.6 (range 4 year to 68 years). In early outcomes, graft loss 29 (8.03%) and sensory deficit 19 (5.26%), are the commonest adverse outcomes. Results of late follow up revealed chronic pain in 29 (8.03%), ankle instability in 24 (6.64%), gait abnormality in 29 (8.76%) and claw toe in 33 (9.14%) patients. The American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) score was 88.45%. Majority (52.63%) patients were very satisfied. Conclusion: The free Fibula is excellent choice for reconstruction of a wide range of osseous defects with minimum donor site morbidity and high satisfaction rate among the patients.Keywords

Reconstruction of complete bilateral maxillary defects (CBMDs) can be challenging due to the extensive loss of bone and soft tissues. This is a retrospective case series of 46 consecutive patients with CBMDs that were reconstructed with different microvascular free flaps. The authors aimed to evaluate the surgical outcomes and discuss the different reconstruction options in this case series. Thirty-six patients underwent reconstruction following ablation surgery for malignant tumors, 6 for benign tumors, 3 patients were treated for osteomyelitis, and 1 patient underwent free flap reconstruction for posttraumatic defects. Free fibula flap (n = 26) is the most commonly used reconstruction method in this case series, which was used in all defect types. This is followed by anterolateral thigh flap (n = 10), 5 rectus abdominis myocutaneous free flap, 3 radial forearm free flaps, and 2 composite free flaps. In this series, 44 free flaps survived, whereas only 2 flaps were lost. All patients could resume a soft diet postoperatively. Reconstruction of CBMDs with vascularized free flaps is a safe and reliable procedure.

Background Osteoradionecrosis (ORN) is one of the most severe complications of free fibula reconstruction after radiotherapy. The gold standard treatment of osteomyelitis involves extensive debridement, antibiotics, and sufficiently vascularized muscle flap coverage for better circulation. Therefore, we hypothesized that free fibula flap with muscle could decrease the risk of ORN. Methods This study consisted of 85 patients who underwent reconstruction with free fibula flap in head and neck cancer by a single reconstructive surgeon at Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital over a period of 19 years (1998–2016). Patients with postoperative adjuvant radiotherapy were included in the study and were grouped by either free fibula osteocutaneous flap or free fibula osteomyocutaneous flap (with flexor hallucis longus muscle), and the incidence of ORN was compared. Results Of the 85 patients, 15 were reconstructed with osteocutaneous fibula flap and 70 were with osteomyocutaneous fibula flap. The rate of ORN or osteomyelitis was significantly lower in the muscle group (18.6%, n = 13/70 vs. 46.7%, n = 7/15, p = 0.020, Chi-square test). Conclusion Vascularized muscle transfer increases perfusion of surrounding tissues and the bone flap, thereby decreasing the incidence of osteomyelitis or osteonecrosis.

Mandibular reconstructive surgery has changed in the recent times with the introduction of advanced techniques. Mandibular reconstruction a challenge for the reconstructive surgeons, is now reliable and highly successful with excellent long-term functional and aesthetic outcomes using vascularised fibular flap in various mandibular pathologies. The ideal reconstruction should restore the anatomic contour, speech, mastication and aesthetics. The free vascularised fibular flap is the primary source of bone for reconstruction of large segmental mandibular defects due to its rich vascularity. We present three cases of segmental mandibular defects reconstructed primarily with vascularised free fibular flap without skin paddle which were followed up for two years.

Background Several recent reports have described the development and use of three-dimensional (3D) printed surgical osteotomy guides. However, these methods: are usually costly. Here, we introduce a novel method of manufacturing surgical guides built from inexpensive, easy-to-use, and sterilizable dental impression silicone. Methods Mandibular and fibular models were prepared using a 3D printer for 10 patients undergoing free fibula flap transfer after mandibular resection. During preoperative simulation surgery, Protesil labor, a dental silicone, was molded to the same size as the fibular models to act as surgical guides. Results The authors compared pre- and post-operative bone angles and bone lengths for all cases using simulation surgery models and postoperative 3D computed tomography. Mean bone angle difference was 2.6° and mean bone length difference was 1.7 mm. Cost of the dental silicone was approximately US$5/patient. Conclusions In our series this method allowed the surgeon to perform an accurate osteotomy, inexpensively and time-efficiently.

Study Design: Free fibula flaps are nowadays the gold standard for the surgical reconstruction on large mandibular defects. Malocclusion is an important complication of this type of reconstruction and many of these patients end up requiring subsequent orthognathic corrective surgery. This is a descriptive retrospective case series study. Objective: To describe the demographic data, operative techniques, corrective methods and postoperative results in the management of malocclusion following mandibular reconstruction with free fibula flap. Methods: This case series study included patients who underwent free fibula flap mandibular reconstructions and who that subsequently developed malocclusion requiring orthognathic corrective surgery, from June 2010 to December 2019. Panoramic X-rays, cephalometries and/or 3-D facial reconstruction CT scans were used for surgical planning to create surgical cutting guides, templates and occlusal splints in all the patients that underwent corrective orthognathic surgery. Results: There were 46 patients who underwent a free fibula flap mandibular and maxillary reconstruction at San Jose Hospital between June 2010 and December 2019 of these, 5 patients (10.9%) developed postoperative malocclusion. One case from another institution was added to this study for a total of 6 patients with malocclusion following mandibular reconstruction surgery with a fibula free flap. During the orthognathic surgery, vertical osteotomies were performed in 3 patients and bilateral sagittal split osteotomies were necessary in 2 patients and L-shape in 1 patient. Osteogenic distraction was performed in 3 patients as part of their orthognathic treatment. The fixation methods were based in miniplates for 3 of the patients and lag screws for the remaining 3 patients. With this approach, all patients had an adequate occlusion correction with a 100% consolidation at their 6-month follow up. Conclusion: Malocclusion is a significant complication following mandibular reconstruction surgery that must be identified and managed. In severe cases, it requires corrective orthognathic surgery in severe cases. We have developed a protocol to avoid pitfalls during the primary reconstruction and in case an orthognathic surgery is required for malocclusion correction, preoperative planning with cutting guides and occlusal splints should be assessed, to guarantee favorable results through a reproducible technique.

Objectives: To present a method to reconstruct the midface using the fibula as both a microvascular free flap and as a free cortex graft. Methods: 22-year-old male presented with bilateral maxillary odonotogenic myxoma. Bilateral total maxillectomy defects were reconstructed using an osteocutaneous fibula free flap. The nasomaxillary buttresses were augmented using free cortex grafts to provide additional soft tissue projection and lateral nasal support. Results: The patient received dental implants at 10 months postoperatively and resumed a normal diet. His midface height, nasal and maxillary projection were adequate. At 36 months post-treatment he has no evidence of disease recurrence or resorption of the free bone grafts. Conclusion: The fibula free flap can be used to provide additional support to a patient’s reconstruction by means of free cortex grafts. The patient has had successful restoration of pyriform aperture, nasal projection, mastication, and dental restoration using a single donor site.

BACKGROUND: The free fibula flap (FFF) has proved to be an adequate adjunct tool in the reconstruction of defects following cancer ablation. Although various investigation tools in the past have been proved to be adequate to study the blood supply of the various trunks of arteries, for the survival of graft, the color Doppler flow study (CDF) can be done for the accurate examination of various perforators for the same in the lower limbs prior to its harvest. MATERIALS AND METHODS: 40 patients were included in the study and were examined for free fibula flap tissue transfer via color Doppler study for the lower limb perforators. RESULTS: In the study, the perforators that are musculocutaneous, septocutaneous and septomusculocutaneous were detected in 80 legs that were examined and all of them had adequate diameter to justify the fact that the graft can be taken for harvesting, except for only two cases where it was found that they were hypoplastic. CONCLUSION: CDF can be a reliable and informative tool in patients planned for free fibula tissue transfer. Also, the skin perforators can be mapped, so as to determine skin paddle inclusion.

Nonossifying fibromas (NOFs) are benign bone tumors occurring in the second decade of life. Most of the NOFs are diagnosed incidentally on the basis of its presentation on plain radiographs where they typically appear as small, cortical osteolytic lesions with sclerotic margin. They are mostly asymptomatic but can result in pathologic fractures if the lesion involves more than 50% of bone diameter. They are mostly treated with curettage and bone grafting. But in challenging situations where the classical surgery has failed or there is impending fracture of the neck of femur, bone structural support is needed. We are discussing two cases diagnosed as NOFs of intracapsular femoral neck. Both cases underwent curettage of tumor followed by free vascularized fibular graft. Results in both the cases were very gratifying, with complete resolution of symptoms during 1 year of follow-up.

Background Although microsurgery fellowships have existed since the 1980s, there is no established curriculum. Microsurgery fellowships vary greatly in clinical caseload, case diversity, and training resources, and there is no consensus on the appropriate composition of a microsurgery fellowship. This study surveys fellowship directors (FD) and recent microsurgery fellows (MFs), graduates, to describe the ideal microsurgery fellowship program. Methods A 15-item questionnaire was sent to 38 FDs and 90 recent microsurgery fellowship graduates. This questionnaire addressed program attributes, case volumes and compositions, ideal experiences, and time allocation to different fellowship experiences. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, t-tests, and Chi-squared tests. Results The FD and MF surveys had a response rate of 47 and 49%, respectively. Both MF and FD agreed that exposure to microsurgical breast reconstruction is the most important characteristic of a microsurgery fellowship (p = 0.94). MF ranked replantation and supermicro/lymphatic surgery as the next most important microsurgical cases, while FD ranked the anterolateral thigh (ALT) flap and free fibula flap (p Conclusion Microsurgical training programs vary in quality and resources. The ideal microsurgery fellowship prioritized breast reconstruction, head and neck reconstruction, and lower extremity reconstruction. Although microsurgical technical expertise is important, a fellowship should also train in revisional surgeries and clinical decision making.

ZusammenfassungHintergrund Langstreckige ossäre Defekte der Extremitäten nach Trauma und Tumorresektion stellen eine große Herausforderung an das plastisch-rekonstruktiv tätige Chirurgenteam dar. Die Defektrekonstruktion mittels freier mikrochirurgischer Fibulatransplantation ist eine Standardmethode, bleibt jedoch mit einer nicht unerheblichen Komplikationsrate behaftet. Ziel der vorliegenden Arbeit ist es, eine aktuelle Übersicht zu den diversen Rekonstruktionsverfahren zu geben und anhand einer persönlichen Fallserie die eigenen Erfahrungen mit der freien Fibulatransplantation mitzuteilen.Patienten und Methoden Die Literaturrecherche zum Thema erfolgte über Pubmed und Web of Science, die retrospektive Datenerhebung des Eigenkollektivs des Seniorautors (MS) unter Einbeziehung von klinischen und radiologischen Daten.Ergebnisse Von 2007 bis 2018 wurde bei 11 Patienten eine freie Fibulatransplantation durchgeführt. In 4 Fällen war eine Pseudarthrose, in 3 eine Osteitis und in 2 Fällen ein Tumor für die Defektentstehung an den Extremitätenknochen ursächlich. Bei 2 Patienten lag eine Defektfraktur infolge eines Hochenergietraumas vor. In 9 Fällen war die obere, in 2 die untere Extremität betroffen. Bei 4 Patienten wurde ein osteoseptokutanes Transplantat entnommen, bei 2 davon kam es zum Verlust der Hautinsel postoperativ. Die Längen der Fibulatransplantate betrugen zwischen 5 und 22 cm. In allen Fällen war die knöcherne Integration des Transplantats vollständig. Das nach Physiotherapie erzielte Bewegungsausmaß der betroffenen Extremität war sehr gut bis befriedigend.Schlussfolgerung Die langstreckige ossäre Defektrekonstruktion mittels freier Fibula ist zweifelsohne eine Standardmethode, bedarf bei beschriebener hoher Komplikationsrate eine strenge Indikationsstellung unter Berücksichtigung alternativer Verfahren. Eine enge Kooperation zwischen plastisch-rekonstruktiven und unfallchirurgisch-orthopädischen Disziplinen ist unverzichtbar.

Introduction Virtual planning of reconstructive surgical procedures in patients with osseous and composite defects in the head and neck region is becoming increasingly a state of the art modality. However, computational algorithms lack the capability of planning the involved soft tissue and vascular pedicle position. The authors present a flow-chart to solve this problem in the reconstruction of defects of the upper and lower jaw. Material and methods Clinical records from 2013 to 2018 from a tertiary care center were screened for patients undergoing osseous reconstruction in the head and neck region. A flow-chart considering soft tissue positioning and the anatomical course of the vascular pedicle was assessed in consideration of the defect and donor-site. Results A total of 81 osseous and composite microvascular reconstructive procedures have been conducted. Defects of the lower jaw were the most common (n = 61). The free fibula flap was the most common reconstructive measure and showed a wide versatility of surgical options to reconstruct these defects. The flow charts were assessed accordingly in these procedures. Conclusion Soft tissue and vascular pedicle positioning can be planned pre-operatively by the use of virtual planning and should be considered as an enhancement tool to the already existing computational algorithms of planning hard tissue reconstruction.

Highlights • This study reports about the success in regard to long term follow-up of an implant retained fixed prosthesis on free fibular reconstruction with a single piece zygomatic implant. • It also reports the superiority of using a single piece bicortical implant via a flapless approach and immediate functional rehabilitation. • Remote Bone Anchorage in conjunction with the union of grafted free fibula flap with the native mandible. • Moreover, it demonstrates the long term success of the technique of immediate functional rehabilitation in the fibular graft., Presenting to our knowledge, for the first time in literature, a case report on the long term follow-up of an implant retained fixed prosthesis on free fibular reconstruction with a single piece zygomatic implant and single piece bicortical implant via a flapless approach and immediate functional rehabilitation. The technique involved the concept of “Remote Bone Anchorage” in conjunction with the union of grafted free fibula flap with the native mandible. It was facilitated with a single piece zygomatic implant engaged in the mandible and splinted with single piece implants on the grafted fibula as needed for prosthetic functional reconstruction. The author has reported a unique concept of immediate functional rehabilitation in the fibular graft therefore providing additional splinting of the vascularized free fibula to the mandible by splinting them with single piece zygomatic cortical implant.

BACKGROUND Most skin paddles of the fibula flap are harvested from the distal third of the lower leg, skin grafting for the donor-site is necessary. METHODS A retrospective review was done on patients with large bony defects using free fibula osteocutaneous flaps (FOSCFF) for head and neck reconstruction. We focus on the techniques for closure of donor sites were skin grafting, primary closure with tear drop design and propeller flap technique on the donor site closure using skin graft, primary closure and local propeller flap based on the different location of perforators of FOSCFF. Postoperative follow up include incidence of wound complications, postoperative days to ambulation and cosmetic outcome. RESULTS A total of 48 patients were included. Twenty five patients had skin graft (Group A), and 23 patients had primary closure (Group B); in 16 patients tear-drop design was used, 6 had propeller flap, and the remaining 1 patient received a chimeric flap. Group A had more wound complication rates compared to Group B; 20% versus 4.3%, respectively (p = .19). The average postoperative days to ambulation for Group A were 15.1 days versus 7.3 days for Group B (p

BACKGROUND Virtual surgical planning has contributed to technical advancements in free fibula flap mandible reconstruction. The authors present the largest comparative study on the latest modification of this technology: the use of patient-specific, preoperatively customized reconstruction plates for fixation. METHODS A retrospective chart review was performed on all patients undergoing mandibular reconstruction with virtually planned free fibula flaps at a single institution between 2008 and 2018. Patient demographics, perioperative characteristics, and postoperative outcomes were reviewed. Reconstructions using traditional fixation methods were compared to those using prefabricated, patient-specific reconstruction plates. RESULTS A total of 126 patients (mean age, 48.5 ± 20.3 years; 61.1 percent male) underwent mandibular reconstruction with a free fibula flap. Mean follow-up time was 23.5 months. A customized plate was used in 43.7 percent of cases. Reconstructions with patient-specific plates had significantly shorter total operative times compared with noncustomized fixation methods (643.0 minutes versus 741.7 minutes; p = 0.001). Hardware complications occurred in 11.1 percent of patients, with a trend toward a lower rate in the customized plate group (5.5 percent versus 15.5 percent; p = 0.091). Multivariate regression showed that the use of customized plates was a significant independent predictor of fewer overall complications (p = 0.03), shorter operative time (p = 0.014), and shorter length of stay (p = 0.001). CONCLUSIONS Compared to traditional fixation methods, patient-specific plates are associated with fewer complications, shorter operative times, and reduced length of stay. The use of customized reconstruction plates increases efficiency and represents the latest technological innovation in mandibular reconstruction. CLINICAL QUESTION/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE Therapeutic, III.

Introduction The free fibula flap (FFF) is a preferred option for adult mandibular reconstruction. Due to skeletal immaturity, its routine use in pediatric patients remains in question. Inconsistencies regarding the ability of the FFF to grow in concordance with the patients' natural growth currently exist in the literature. The purpose of this report is to quantify mandibular growth in a young patient undergoing partial hemi-mandibular reconstruction with a FFF utilizing advanced three-dimensional software. Methods A 2-year old underwent left hemi-mandibular reconstruction with a FFF following resection of a desmoid tumor. The condyle was preserved. Using 3D software, changes in mandibular growth and morphology were evaluated based on preoperative (2.1 years old) and postoperative (2.5 years and 5.2 years old) computed tomography imaging. Results Mandibular growth occurred throughout the mandible in both postoperative evaluations. Greatest growth was seen in the ramus height. Fibula growth was also seen when comparing measurements to the virtual surgical planning guide. A novel parts comparison analysis revealed the greatest growth potential occurred at the condyle. Conclusion Providing an objective evaluation using 3D software, we have demonstrated growth throughout the reconstructed mandible, with greatest growth occurring at the preserved condyle. Despite scientific limitations of our study, the potential for mandibular growth appears to remain after FFF reconstruction, offering successful functional and cosmetic outcomes.

Microvascular free flaps are ideal for reconstructing post-oncological surgery defects in the head and neck region. Free flaps provide ample tissue for reconstructing even large, complex defects, which gives oncosurgeons flexibility during tumor resections. We performed 1000 free flap head and neck reconstructions in 978 patients from June 2015 to September 2018. For reconstructing bone defects, our flap of choice was the free fibula. The surgical outcomes and complications according to flap were retrospectively reviewed and analyzed. The overall flap success rate was 98.1%. A total of 45 cases required emergency surgical re-exploration for compromised flaps and 19 of these flaps could not be salvaged. Venous insufficiency was the most common cause of surgical re-exploration. Flaps with delayed arterial thrombosis and vascular compression could not be salvaged. Other complications were partial flap necrosis, orocutaneous fistula, and donor site complications. No statistically significant differences were noted for complications in elderly and post-radiotherapy patients. Free flap reconstruction is a robust and highly reliable option for head and neck defects, and two free flaps are a safe option for treating large defects. A second free flap should be the first choice in failed cases after the medical optimization of the patient. Free flap reconstruction is safe in elderly and post-radiotherapy patients. Level of Evidence: Level IV, therapeutic study.

Because of the long-term and consecutive use of different causative agents, clinicians are increasingly encountering patients needing restoration of the stomatognathic system after surgical resection of highly advanced necroses of the jaw. For plastic restoration in these cases, microvascular reconstruction seems to represent the most viable option. According to the limited data available, the risks of this operation are considered comparable with those faced by other patient cohorts. We report here the case of a patient who suffered 2 successive pathologic fractures of the tibia after microsurgical reconstruction of the mandible with a free fibula flap. This exemplifies a general problem, especially because the patient also suffered from a treatment-refractory infection of the transplanted bone. Although the present literature indicates otherwise, fibula transplants might not be the gold standard in these cases. Therefore, alternatives to transplants from the weight-bearing parts of the body need to be considered until more data are available.

Background: Pathologic fractures of the mandible following radiation and embolization can be a challenging problem for patients. Occasionally, patients have already completed the oncologic component of their treatment and are trying to move on with their lives. A pathologic fracture is not only painful, but also a frustrating hindrance as it limits food intake and overall nutrition. In addition, pathologic fractures are challenging to repair.

Background Type 1 internal hemipelvectomies and total sacrectomies cause significant biomechanical instability, demanding pelvic ring reconstruction for ambulation and torso support. Previously described methods include autografts, allografts, and implants, commonly with poor long-term outcomes. The authors hypothesized that the free fibula flap for spinopelvic reconstruction is safe and effective, and associated with a high bony union rate and superior functional outcomes. Methods The authors performed a retrospective review of all patients who underwent free fibula flap surgery after internal hemipelvectomy or total sacrectomy at M. D. Anderson Cancer Center from 2003 to 2018. The primary outcome was radiographic evidence of bony union. Secondary outcomes included surgical-site occurrence and lower extremity function. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed. Results Forty-seven patients were included (internal hemipelvectomy, n = 38; total sacrectomy, n = 9). The mean follow-up was 3.3 years and the most common abnormality was chondrosarcoma (30.4 percent). The nonunion rate was 9.7 percent and the surgical-site occurrence rate was 34 percent; there were no flap losses. Greater age was significantly associated with nonunion (OR, 1.1; 95 percent CI, 1 to 1.2; p = 0.003), whereas obesity was the only independent predictor of surgical-site occurrence (OR, 9.2; 95 percent CI, 1.2 to 71.3; p = 0.03). Functional metrics approached those of adult norms by 3 years postoperatively. Compared to internal hemipelvectomy patients, patients undergoing total sacrectomy had more comorbidities, a higher complication rate, and a worse functional outcome. Conclusion The free fibula flap for spinopelvic reconstruction is safe and effective, and is associated with a high bony union rate and superior functional outcomes. Clinical question/level of evidence Risk, III.

Aims: The aim of our study was to evaluate by questionnaire the HRQOL who have had mandibular resection of oral cancers and reconstruction with either free fibular flap or PMMC. Settings and Design: Retrospective study Methods and Material: The study was done in a tertiary care hospital over a period of 2years. Adult and consenting patients who had underwent lateral segmental mandibulectomy with successful reconstruction were included. Statistical analysis: Information from the data was correlated against the socio-demographic and treatment variables using the Mann Whitney U test. Data were recorded and then analysed & P

Major pelvic resections for malignant tumors are infrequent and have significant morbidity and mortality, for instance, incisional hernias are postoperative complications uncommonly reported probably because most cases are overshadowed by more serious complications. Reconstruction depends on the extent of the resection and overall prognosis of the patient. A case of a late complex hypogastric and femoral incisional hernia after extended hemipelvectomy for recurrent osteosarcoma treated with distal abdominal wall fixation into a free fibula flap is reported.

Introduction Traumatic intercalary defects of the tibia may be effectively managed with the free fibula flap. However, any alteration of limb alignment with residual bony angular deformity of the tibia must be also addressed. We describe the use of the free fibula flap in conjunction with external fixation to allow residual deformity correction and patient mobilization ambulation during healing of the free flap. Methods Retrospective medical record review was conducted of patients with segmental tibial defects greater than 7 cm who underwent reconstruction with fibula free flap and simple pin-bar external fixation, followed by conversion to 6-axis computer-assisted multiplanar circular ring external fixation to correct residual bony deformity. Outcomes analyses included free flap complications, return to the operating room, complications associated with the external fixation, bony union, correction of residual deformity, amputation rate, visual analog pain scales, and patient satisfaction. Results Eight patients (8 tibiae) underwent reconstruction. Mean tibial bone defect was 10.2 cm; all limbs had soft-tissue defects (mean size, 138 cm). Free fibula grafts were harvested as osteocutaneous or osteomyocutaneous flaps (average length, 12 cm). Complications included 1 delayed union and 3 (37.5%) patients readmitted for graft fracture. Ultimately, 100% of patients achieved graft union with satisfactory correction of residual limb deformity. Limb salvage rate was 100%. Discussion Management of segmental tibial bone loss utilizing initial simple external fixation and microsurgical reconstruction followed by application of computer-assisted circular external fixator may provide a reliable reconstructive protocol for posttraumatic tibial defects with residual bone malalignment.