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Head & Neck Oncology
Published in: Head & Neck Oncology 1/2009

Open Access 01-12-2009 | Review

Salvage of failed free flaps used in head and neck reconstruction

Authors: Daniel Novakovic, Rajan S Patel, David P Goldstein, Patrick J Gullane

Published in: Head & Neck Oncology | Issue 1/2009

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Abstract

Free flap success rates are in excess of 95%. Vascular occlusion (thrombosis) remains the primary reason for flap loss, with venous thrombosis being more common than arterial occlusion. The majority of flap failures occur within the first 48 hours. With early recognition and intervention of flap compromise salvage is possible. Successful salvage rates range from 28% to over 90%. Rapid re-exploration in this clinical setting is crucial to maximise the chances of flap salvage. If salvage is not feasible or unsuccessful then non-surgical methods of salvage may be employed with some possibility of success. The purpose of this article is to review the causes of free flap failure and to highlight the available options for salvage.
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Metadata
Title
Salvage of failed free flaps used in head and neck reconstruction
Authors
Daniel Novakovic
Rajan S Patel
David P Goldstein
Patrick J Gullane
Publication date
01-12-2009
Publisher
BioMed Central
Published in
Head & Neck Oncology / Issue 1/2009
Electronic ISSN: 1758-3284
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1186/1758-3284-1-33

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