Scapular tip free flap in head and neck reconstruction:

Scapula harvest in the supine position for immediate mandibular reconstruction

PURPOSE

The scapula is the second most popular donor site for mandibular reconstruction after the fibula. Scapula harvest is generally performed in the lateral decubitus position and the requirement of positional changes hamper the widespread use of the scapula. This study compared scapula harvest for immediate mandibular reconstruction between the supine and lateral decubitus positions.

METHODS

We reviewed the outcomes of 16 patients who underwent segmental mandibulectomy and immediate reconstruction of the scapula based on the angular branch of the thoracodorsal artery. The scapula was harvested in the lateral decubitus (lateral decubitus group) or supine position (supine group) in eight patients each. Several perioperative parameters were compared between the two groups.

RESULTS

One scapula was lost because of inadvertent injury of the angular branch in the supine group. The operative time was significantly shorter in the supine group than in the lateral decubitus group.

CONCLUSION

Harvesting of the scapula in the supine position is a feasible option for immediate mandibular reconstruction. Although deep anatomic knowledge and technical expertise are necessary, this strategy can eliminate positional change and significantly reduce the operative time.

Maxillary reconstruction with horizontally oriented scapular tip free flap: outcomes in orbital support and palate closure

BACKGROUND

Current indications of maxillary reconstruction with scapular tip free flap (STFF) are palatoalveolar defects associated with zygomaticomaxillary buttress and/or orbital floor defects. STFF can be placed either horizontally or vertically. Horizontal placement usually allows ideal palatal conformation, preventing oronasal communication, but has been argued to compromise orbital support and projection of the midface, whereas vertical placement is advocated for midface support but may be insufficient for the complete closure of the palate. The present study focuses on the horizontal placing of STFF to allow complete palate reconstruction and fistulae prevention while still obtaining optimal midface projection and orbital support.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This study included 21 case complex maxillary reconstructions with this flap, in which the horizontally placed scapular tip component replaced the palate, a muscular flap component was included for midface volume restoration, and an alloplastic implant was utilized for supporting the orbital content when needed.

RESULTS

None of the patients presented palatal fistulas or alterations in the orbital support.

CONCLUSION

A multilevel approach was proposed according to the maxillectomy defect. This experience supported the horizontal insetting of STFF to allow palatal fistulae prevention while still obtaining an optimal midface projection and orbital support.

Donor site morbidity after scapula free flap surgery of head and neck reconstruction: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

The scapula free flap is becoming increasingly more utilized in head and neck reconstruction due to its natural geometry and soft tissue versatility. This study reviews the incidence rate, risk factors, and treatments of complications of scapula donor site morbidity.

METHODS

A review was performed for articles published between October 1990 and November 2022 in Medline (OVID), PubMed, Web of Science, and CENTRAL. After screening, 24 articles meeting the criteria were included.

RESULTS

Overall, 660 head and neck surgeries with the scapula donor bone across 24 studies were included. Twenty studies of 612 scapula free flaps reported a pooled postoperative complication rate of 10.7%, with no major complications. Seven studies of 199 scapula reconstructions showed a mean Disability of Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) score of 14.39/100.

CONCLUSION

With its low rate of morbidity, the scapula flap presents itself as a good alternative for patients at risk for poor healing.

Perioperative pain management after scapular tip free flap harvesting for head and neck reconstruction using mini-catheters to inject the local anesthetic

PURPOSE

Although functional and esthetic results after the use of a scapular tip free flap (STFF) in head and neck reconstruction, and the related donor-site morbidity, have been extensively described, data regarding acute postoperative donor-site pain management are lacking. Purpose of this study is to explore the use of mini-catheters to administer local anesthetics for donor-site pain management after reconstruction using STFF.

METHODS

Patients who underwent head and neck reconstruction using a STFF were prospectively enrolled and, through a perineural catheter placed in the donor site during the surgical procedure, a bolus of chirochaine was injected before the patient regained consciousness and at 8, 16, and 24 h postoperatively. Before and 40 min after each dose administration, donor-site pain on a numerical rating scale (NRS; 0-10) was evaluated.

RESULTS

Study population consisted of 20 patients (40-88 years). At 8 h, the pain scores before and after the injection were 0-10 (mean 3.35) and 0-5 (mean 1.25), respectively. At 16 h, the pain scores before and after the injection were 0-8 (mean 2.55) and 0-4 (mean 0.55), respectively. At 24 h, the pain scores before and after the injection were 0-8 (mean 1.30) and 0-4 (mean 0.30), respectively.

CONCLUSION

Statistical analysis confirmed a significant difference between the pain scores before and after administration at 8, 16, and 24 h (p < 0.001, p < 0.001, and p = 0.003, respectively). Mini-catheters for local anesthetic administration represent an effective strategy for pain control after STFF harvesting for head and neck reconstruction.

Use of scapular tip flaps in the reconstruction of head and neck defects: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Scapular tip flaps (STF) may be used as an alternative to traditional methods of reconstruction of head and neck cancer (HNC) defects. This study aimed to establish the success and complication rates for STF in HNC reconstruction. A literature search was conducted on PubMed, BMJ Journals, DARE, EMBASE databases and Cochrane (CENTRAL) register. (Registry CRD42023428012). A total of 23 studies fulfilled the inclusion criteria with 474 patients who underwent reconstructive procedures using the STF. 100% of STF used were free flaps (STFFs). The most common reason for reconstruction was following malignancy (81.4%, n = 386). The pooled success rates in all studies using scapular tip flaps in head and neck reconstruction was 99% (95% CI, 97 to 100, p = 1.00; I2 = 0). Pooled total complication rates were 38% (95% CI, 25 to 51, p < 0.01; I2 = 90%). 19.6% required return to theatre with only 1.5% being for repeat flap coverage. The STF demonstrated an overall success rate of 99%. This is higher than other documented success rates with mainstay flaps for HNC defect reconstruction. Complication and re-operation rates were also like recorded rates. This review demonstrates the advantage of STF as a safe and versatile reconstructive option for HNC related defects. Evaluation of the literature is limited by poor-quality studies and comparability bias.

Comparing donor site morbidity in osteocutaneous radial forearm versus fibula free flap for mandibular reconstruction

PURPOSE

The osteocutaneous radial forearm free flap has gained popularity as a less morbid option for oromandibular reconstruction compared to the fibular free flap. However, there is a paucity of data regarding direct outcome comparison between these techniques.

METHODS

Retrospective chart review of 94 patients who underwent maxillomandibular reconstruction intervened from July 2012-October 2020 at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences. All other bony free flaps were excluded. Endpoints retrieved encompassed demographics, surgical outcomes, perioperative data, and donor site morbidity. Continuous data points were analyzed using independent sample t-Tests. Qualitative data was analyzed using Chi-Square tests to determine significance. Ordinal variables were tested using the Mann-Whitney U test.

RESULTS

The cohort was equally male and female, with a mean age of 62.6 years. There were 21 and 73 patients in the osteocutaneous radial forearm free flap and fibular free flap cohorts, respectively. Excluding age, the groups were otherwise comparable, including tobacco use, and ASA classification. Bony defect (OC-RFFF = 7.9 cm, FFF = 9.4 cm, p = 0.021) and skin paddle (OC-RFFF = 54.6 cm2, FFF = 72.21 cm2, p = 0.045) size were larger in the fibular free flap group. However, no significant difference was found between cohorts with respect to skin graft. There was no statistically significant difference between cohorts regarding the rate of donor site infection, tourniquet time, ischemia time, total operative time, blood transfusion, or length of hospital stay.

CONCLUSIONS

No significant difference in perioperative donor site morbidity was found between patients undergoing fibular forearm free flap and osteocutaneous radial forearm flap for maxillomandibular reconstruction. Osteocutaneous radial forearm flap performance was associated with significantly older age, which may represent a selection bias.

Tips and Tricks to Avoid Complications With Scapula Tip-Free Flap

PURPOSE

Create a practical step-by-step guide to harvesting this flap, highlighting the critical points that can create problems during surgery and the postoperative period.

METHODS

The tips and tricks to harvesting the scapula tip-free flap are described in different points, describing the patient preparation and skin incision, identification of the anterior border of the latissimus dorsi, dissection of the pedicle, bone osteotomy, flap inset, and closure.

RESULTS

As the scapula tip-free flap provides skin, muscle, and bone tissue, it is a valid option for the reconstruction of the defects maxillary and mandibular region for facial reconstruction. The complications are minimal, with some cases of seroma and postoperative shoulder pain.

CONCLUSION

Thanks to the surgical technique described, harvesting the scapula tip-free flap with the patient in the supine position makes it a valid option for working in 2 fields, shortening surgical time and being a very interesting option for maxillofacial reconstruction.

Immediate placement of extra-short implants in refined scapula tip microvascular free flaps: In house virtual planning and surgical technique - Proof of concept

Scapula tip flaps have been introduced in the literature as an ideal surgical treatment option for large defects in the horizontal plane of the maxilla. This article aims to present a unique step by step protocol for a near total maxillectomy with a pterygoid bone resection and consecutive microvascular reconstruction with a harvested scapula tip flap. The protocol includes immediate placement of extra-short implants in donor bone with the aid of Virtual Surgical Planning (VSP), and an in-house 3D printing of medical 3D models and surgical guides. So far, there has been no presented surgical technique combining immediate implant placement in the scapula region with simultaneous microvascular repair. This technique allows: tumour resection; flap harvesting; extra-short implant placements and reconstruction to be performed in one simultaneous procedure. The technique is presented with illustrations, VSP (presented on videos), radiographs, and surgical findings. We discovered that this refinement of the scapula tip surgery has enabled reconstructive procedures to be performed at the same time as implant placements, providing expedited functional and aesthetic outcomes in selected cases. Moreover, modification of the surgical technique could enhance the competence of the oropharyngeal edge. In conclusion, this new surgical protocol utilizing VSP, 3D models and simultaneous extra-short implant placement provides indispensable advantages for such a complicated surgical procedures, while significantly shortening the duration of surgery.

History, Innovation, Pearls, and Pitfalls in Complex Midface Reconstruction

Midface reconstruction in head and neck cancer or individuals with extensive trauma to the face has evolved significantly over the past few decades with the introduction of free flap reconstruction and virtual surgical planning enabling surgeons to obtain optimal cosmetic and functional outcomes. Traditional methods such as the use of obturators or local flaps still have a role in select situations, but complex defects have been replaced by the advent of microvascular free tissue transfer and virtual planning, which can commonly provide a single-stage reconstruction of the midface with excellent aesthetic and functional results. This article provides an overview of the history and evolution of midface reconstruction, a discussion of how to integrate virtual surgical planning into a surgical practice, an example of a complex midface reconstruction case, and pearls and pitfalls that have been experienced by an experienced reconstructive team.

Reconstruction of oral cavity defects using myogenous-only scapular tip free-flaps

Background

Oral cavity reconstruction is very challenging anatomical subsite to reconstruct. Large defects often require free tissue reconstruction to provide the best chance of form and function. Additionally, free tissue reconstruction aids to prevent fistula formation. We aimed to determine outcomes of oral cavity defect reconstruction using scapular tip free flaps with a myogenous intraoral component.

Methods

All patients with a mandibular or maxillary bony defect that included a disruption of the intraoral mucosa component between 07/1/14 and 07/31/17. Patients were reconstructed with a scapular tip free flap, which included a muscular component that was used to recreate the oral mucosa. The primary study outcomes were flap success rates, development of orocutaneous or oronasal fistula, rate of resuming oral diet as well as the occurrence of medical and surgical complications in the first month following surgery. The tested hypothesis was formulated before data collection began.

Results

Twenty-five patients were identified by the study criteria. There was one (4%) flap that failed, while orocutaneous fistula occurred in two patients (8%). Prior history of osteoradionecrosis was a statistically significant predictor of overall complication (p < .05).

Conclusions

Intraoral myogenous reconstruction allows for re-mucosalization of the oral cavity defect and is associated with high viability and low-complication rates. In patients with amenable oral mucosal defects, a myogenous scapular tip free flap is a suitable reconstructive option.

The Use of Scapular Bone Flaps During Head-and-Neck Reconstruction: Functional, Orthopedic, and Quality of Life Analyses of Flap-Harvest-Related Deficits

ABSTRACT

The authors sought correlations between harvesting of the scapular bone tip free flap used for head-and-neck reconstruction and any shoulder function deficit, particularly at the level of the rotator cuff. The flap permits reconstruction of large and diverse regions of the head and neck, but long-term harvest morbidity has not been investigated extensively. The authors analyzed the clinical records of all patients who underwent head-and-neck reconstructions using free scapular tip flaps in our department over the past 5 years. The inclusion criteria were complete clinical and radiological documentation and follow-up for at least 12 months. Two populations, a surgical and control population, were analyzed. All patients in both populations underwent the simple shoulder test, an internationally validated self-administered test that highlights functional shoulder deficits, and 3 additional tests at orthopedic visits: the external rotation test, Patte test, and external rotation lag sign test. A head-and-neck cancer-specific questionnaire (University of Washington Quality of Life, version 4) was completed by the surgical patients. All statistical analyses were performed using Software IBM SPSS Statistics (IBM Corp., Armonk, NY).A total of 19 patients met the inclusion criteria: 11 males (57.8%) and 8 females (42.2%) of mean age 60.9 years (range 23-75 years). In addition, 20 age-and sex-matched volunteers with no history of shoulder pathology were evaluated in terms of shoulder functionality. The average score on the simple shoulder test was 10.55 in the healthy population versus 8.31 in the study population (P < 0.001); in particular, shoulder strength differed between the groups. Similarly, the orthopedic examinations revealed clinically significant differences between the controls and patients on the Patte test and external rotation lag sign test (both P < 0.001), but not the external rotation test (P > 0.001). The mean University of Washington Quality of Life was 73.39; most patients reported good quality of life (52.6%), followed by very good (15.7%).The free scapular bone tip flap is valuable for reconstruction of head-and-neck defects; the long and reliable vascular pedicle allows rapid patient mobilization. Morbidity was confined to small reductions in shoulder strength and external rotation, which do not affect quality of life.

The combined anterolateral thigh-Partial iliac crest minihybrid free flap for mandibular reconstruction

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Tumors of the oral cavity often require extensive resections leading to significant hard and soft tissue defects. Microvascular free flaps, consisting of both hard and soft tissue, are often required in reconstructions. Hybrid flaps, composed of two different joint free flaps, offer potential alternatives for head and neck reconstruction. This report presents our results with a modified hybrid ALT/DCIA, that is, minihybrid free flap (MH-flap) composed of the anterolateral thigh (ALT) and a partial inner lamina iliac crest only (partial DCIA) for reconstruction of the mandibular region.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Eight patients underwent oral cancer reconstruction of the mandible with the MH-flap. The MH-flap was harvested sparing the outer crest and lamina of crista, and its pedicle was combined to the distal pedicle of ALT. Clinical data and postoperative complications were analyzed.

RESULTS

The mean length of the osseous graft was 64 mm (range 54-78 mm). None of the patients had complications requiring surgical intervention. No donor site complications were observed. The overall survival rate was 100%. The mean length of follow-up was 16 months (range 7-30 months).

CONCLUSIONS

According to our results, the ALT-partial DCIA MH-flap has postoperative outcomes comparable to those of the fibular flap. The flap is a good option with excellent bone properties for reconstruction of limited mandibular defects not suitable for fibular or scapular reconstruction.

Near-total mandibular reconstruction following osteoradionecrosis with double scapula tip free flap: A case report

Near-total mandibular reconstruction poses many challenges to reconstructive surgeons. The purpose of this article is to present a challenging case in a patient with osteoradionecrosis of the mandible requiring a near-total mandibular reconstruction using bilateral scapula tip free tissue reconstruction. A 68-year-old African-American male with a history of T2N0M0 squamous cell carcinoma of the tonsil presented with advanced stage osteoradionecrosis of the mandible. Reconstruction was planned using 3D Systems (Denver, CO), mandibular osteotomies were planned inferior to the sigmoid notch on the ascending rami. Neither fibula flap was amenable for harvesting due to poor vasculature of the patient's lower extremities, and bilateral scapula tip free flaps were subsequently planned. The post-operative course was complicated by venous congestion in the right scapula flap which required revision to the venous anastomosis on POD 1. The patient had intraoral breakdown that required debridement in the operating room and application of a cellular matrix. The patient fully recovered from the acute surgery and was discharged home without a tracheostomy. At the last follow up visit, the patient was taking 100% of diet peroral and had no signs of oral incompetence, mental projection was satisfactory, and the ability to verbally communicate was unimpaired. We report a complex case of near-total mandibular reconstruction using simultaneous bilateral scapula tip free flaps. While we do not advocate simultaneous bilateral scapula tip free flaps as the standard of care for large mandibulectomy defects, it may be considered for patients in which traditional osseous free flaps are not available.

Surgical Techniques for Head and Neck Reconstruction in the Vessel-Depleted Neck

The vessel-depleted neck presents a unique and challenging scenario for reconstructive surgery of the head and neck. Prior surgery and radiation often result in significant scarring and damage to the neck vasculature, making identification of suitable recipient vessels for microvascular free tissue transfer exceedingly difficult. Therefore, alternative reconstructive techniques and/or vessel options must be considered to obtain a successful reconstructive outcome for a patient. In this article, we discuss our experience and approach to the management of the vessel-depleted neck, emphasizing the importance of preoperative planning and having multiple backup options prior to surgery. The various preoperative imaging modalities and available options for recipient arteries and veins are presented in detail. Additionally, we discuss modifications of select free flaps to maximize their utility in successful reconstruction. Together with thoughtful preoperative planning, these techniques can help aid the reconstructive surgeon in addressing the complex decisions associated with the vessel-depleted neck.

Reconstruction of Complex Oromandibular Defects in Head and Neck Cancer: Role of the Chimeric Subscapular Free Flap

The purpose of this study is to present the chimeric scapula tip-free flap as a reconstructive choice in composite head and neck defects and to highlight the experiences of the authors in this field.A retrospective study and a literature review were conducted. Data about preoperative condition, intraoperative images, and radiological and clinical documentation were collected.Excision of head and neck advanced cancers may result in large composite defects containing different types of soft tissue and bone. This topic is particularly challenging in salvage surgery after radiation therapy. In this setting, reconstructive techniques are very complex and traditionally require the use of multiple microvascular flaps. Chimeric free flaps, based on the subscapular system, allow complex reconstructions, providing both soft tissue and bone on a single vascular peduncle.The regional anatomy of the subscapular system and the possible chimeric flaps that can be harvested will be discussed, together with the reconstructive surgical technique used and the positioning of the patient. Two representative clinical cases of complex head and neck reconstruction after radiotherapy are presented.Different types of chimeric flap can be harvested from the subscapular system. These flaps can include different tissues: skin, bone, muscle on a single vascular peduncle. This characteristic is particularly useful in complex defects with different tissue types involved, following large en-bloc excision of advanced head and neck tumors.Free flaps based on the subscapular system can be an excellent reconstructive choice in complex head and neck defects.

Novel Geometry of an Extended Length Chimeric Scapular Free Flap for Hemimandibular Reconstruction: Nuances of the Technique Streamlined by In-House Virtual Surgical Planning and 3D Printing for a Severely Vessel-Depleted Neck

Subscapular-based flaps have historically maintained an unparalleled ability to provide a multitude of bone and soft tissue components based on a single vascular pedicle. However, these flaps are often not thought of as an ideal choice for composite defects requiring extended lengths of bone for reconstruction. The ability to harvest long segments of bone and reliably perform multiple contouring osteotomies is fundamental to long-span composite mandibular reconstruction, and microvascular surgeons are often met with significant reconstructive challenges when fibular free flaps cannot be used owing to variant vascular anatomy or occlusive atherosclerotic disease in these specific clinical scenarios. This challenge is further compounded by treatment-related vessel depletion in the neck, which reduces the availability of suitable recipient vessels in close proximity to the reconstruction. We present a case in which all of the aforementioned challenges presented in a single individual, who concomitantly required hemimandibular reconstruction with treatment related vessel depletion in the neck and unsuitable bilateral vascular anatomy in the legs precluding the use of a fibular free flap. This case demonstrates a previously unreported flap component geometry for hemimandibular reconstruction using an extended-length chimeric scapular free flap with scapular tip, lateral scapular border, and parascapular fasciocutaneous skin paddle components.

Prognostic factors associated with achieving total oral diet following osteocutaneous microvascular free tissue transfer reconstruction of the oral cavity

INTRODUCTION

Osteocutaneous microvascular free tissue transfer (OMFTT) is the current standard in reconstruction of large bony defects of the oral cavity. Although being able to swallow ranks as a top priority for patients undergoing OMFTT, factors associated with achieving an oral diet following surgery remain unclear. We sought to describe the rate of total oral diet achievement, and to identify possible pre-, intra-, and post-operative factors associated with achievement in patients undergoing OMFTT.

METHODS

Retrospective review between January 1, 2010 and March 31, 2018 at two tertiary academic centers.

RESULTS

249 patients (67% male, mean age 58 years) met inclusion criteria, with a median follow up of 15 months. Overall, 142 (57%) of patients achieved a total PO diet post-operatively, with median time to achievement of 3.2 months. Multivariate analysis identified that lack of concurrent glossectomy (SHR 1.72 [1.09-2.70], p = 0.02), N0/1 disease (SHR 1.92 [1.16-3.13], p = 0.011), avoidance of post-operative fistula formation (SHR 1.96 [1.22-3.23], p = 0.005), pre-operative G-tube independence (SHR 3.33 [1.69-6.25], p < 0.001), and successful dental rehabilitation (SHR 2.08 [1.43-3.03], p < 0.001) are independently associated with total oral diet achievement.

CONCLUSIONS

Bony resections not requiring glossectomy, limited nodal disease burden, pre-operative gastrostomy-independence, avoidance of post-operative fistula, and dental rehabilitation are independently associated with achievement of total oral diet following OMFTT reconstruction of the oral cavity. Counseling patients on associated risk factors is important in guiding post-treatment expectations. Minimization of post-operative fistula, and maximization of dental rehabilitation may significantly improve total oral diet achievement in this patient population.

Scapula pre-augmentation in sheep with polycaprolactone tricalcium phosphate scaffolds

A scapula free flap is a commonly used method to reconstruct intraoral defects of the mandible and maxilla. Despite its clear advantages, it shows some deficiencies concerning the amount and shape of the available bone, especially with respect to later implant placement. To overcome these limitations, we pre-augmented the scapula prior to a potential flap-raising procedure with polycaprolactone (PCL) tricalcium phosphate (TCP) scaffolds in a sheep model. In our study, the scapula angle was augmented with a block of PCL-TCP in three adult sheep. After 6 months, the amount of newly formed bone and scaffold degradation were evaluated using cone-beam computed tomography scans and histomorphometric analysis. All animals survived the study and showed no problems in the augmented regions. The scaffolds were attached firmly to the scapula and showed a bonelike consistency. A fair amount of the scaffold material was degraded and replaced by vital bone. Our method seems to be a valid approach to pre-augment the scapula in sheep. In further experiments, it will be interesting to determine whether it is possible to transplant a modified scapula flap to an intraoral defect site.

Scapular tip and latissimus dorsi osteomyogenous free flap for the reconstruction of a maxillectomy defect: A minimally invasive transaxillary approach

The purpose of this study was to propose a novel, minimally invasive transaxillary approach for harvesting the scapular tip and latissimus dorsi osteomyogenous free flap for the reconstruction of a maxillectomy defect. A retrospective case series study of 4 patients who underwent reconstruction using a scapular tip composite free flap through the transaxillary approach was conducted. The data (age, sex, pathology, previous treatment and adjuvant treatment) were collected and analysed. Total operation time, number of hospital days and the cosmetic and functional outcome of reconstruction were analysed. Two male and two female patients were enrolled in this study. The patients' ages ranged from 52 to 59 years. All the patients had maxillectomy defects, with at least a classification of Okay type II, which were successfully reconstructed using a scapular tip and latissimus dorsi free flap through a minimally invasive transaxillary approach. The entire operation time for the primary tumour surgery and reconstruction ranged from 6.2 to 12.1 h (mean, 11.1 h). The average length of the hospital stay was 13 days (range, 10-16 days). No major donor site morbidity was observed, and there was no graft failure that required revision or exploration surgery. The minimally invasive transaxillary approach for harvesting the scapular tip and latissimus dorsi osteomyogenous free flap for the reconstruction of maxillectomy defect is a promising approach for more favourable functional and aesthetic outcomes when compared to the use of other bone containing free flaps and the classic approach for harvesting scapular tip and latissimus dorsi free flap.