Various Utility of Perforator Flaps in Head and Neck Reconstruction

There are various types of flap in head and neck reconstruction. We chose the appropriate flap considering the indication and patient's condition. In case of conventional flaps, its type is decided according to the reconstruction site. In other words, the types of considerable flaps are limited in a way. But, perforator flaps can reduce donor limitation and harvest flaps depending on the condition of the recipient. Therefore, the flap is very useful for the head and neck reconstruction needed for 2-dimensional or 3-dimensional reconstruction. We report the 29 cases of perforator-based flap including 8 cases of latissimus dorsi perforator free flap, 5 thoracodorsal perforator free flap, 4 anterolateral thigh perforator free flap, 3 peroneal osteocutaneous perforator free flap and 9 submental perforator island flap for the head and neck reconstruction. Free flaps include 2 cases of chimeric pattern, 7 controlled resurfacing pattern, 4 3-D pattern, 3 dermoadiposal pattern, 1 folded pattern and 3 osteocutaneous pattern. The flaps were successfully used for the head and neck reconstruction. But one patient died during a follow up period because of the recurrence of tumor. Various perforator flaps(island/free pattern) can be highly competitive to the conventional flaps in the head and neck reconstruction, considering a thin character for resurfacing, more flexible and versatile option, variable composition, long pedicle with donor structures saved, and less prominent donor morbidity.

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