Anterolateral thigh, radial forearm and superficial circumflex iliac perforator flaps in oral reconstruction: a comparative analysis
Michael Papanikolas, Michael Hurrell, Jonathan R. Clark, Tsu‐Hui Low, Sydney Ch’ng, Michael Elliott, Carsten E. Palme, James Wykes
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Anterolateral thigh (ALT) and Radial forearm free flaps (RFFF) are historically the most common methods of oral reconstruction. The Superficial circumflex iliac artery perforator flap (SCIP) is an alternative providing a donor site that can be readily closed primarily with improved cosmesis in younger patients, due to its concealability. METHODS: test were used for statistical analysis. RESULTS: There were 37 ALT, 64 RFFF and 35 SCIP reconstructions. Patients reconstructed with SCIP flaps had smaller resection volumes (P < 0.001) and earlier T and N classifications (P = 0.001, P = 0.008), and consequently reduced tracheostomy rates (P < 0.001), reduced need for enteral feeding at discharge (P < 0.001) and shorter length of stay and perioperative times (P < 0.001). SCIP flaps were more common in younger patients (P < 0.01). ALT flaps were used for more advanced disease (P = 0.001) and had larger resection volumes (P < 0.001) and increased need for assisted enteral feeding (P < 0.001). There were no significant differences in flap or donor site outcomes. There were two flap failures, both RFFF. CONCLUSION: Each flap plays an important role in the reconstruction of oral defects, with larger defects preferentially reconstructed with ALT flaps. SCIP appears to be a reliable alternative in small defects with excellent perioperative and postoperative outcomes.