Question

Classify different types of free flaps used in head and neck reconstruction.

Hint:

Free flaps are chosen based on the tissue type required (skin, muscle, bone), the defect location, and the available blood vessels for the flap.

Answer 1

Free flaps are commonly used in head and neck reconstruction to repair defects resulting from trauma, tumor resection, or congenital anomalies. The classification of free flaps is based on the type of tissue being transferred and the blood supply used. The main types of free flaps used in head and neck reconstruction include:
1. Skin Flaps:
- Radial Forearm Free Flap: A versatile flap that provides skin and subcutaneous tissue for reconstruction. It is harvested from the forearm, using the radial artery as the vascular supply.
- Anterolateral Thigh Flap: A large skin flap with reliable blood supply, used for reconstructing large defects in the head and neck area.
2. Muscle Flaps:
- Latissimus Dorsi Free Flap: A muscle flap that provides both muscle and skin. It is used for large defects requiring bulk tissue reconstruction, such as in the oropharyngeal area.
- Serratus Anterior Free Flap: A muscle flap used for reconstructing defects in the oropharyngeal and cervical regions.
3. Fasciocutaneous Flaps:
- Forehead Flap: A fasciocutaneous flap that is commonly used for nasal reconstruction, particularly in patients who need large soft tissue coverage.
- Temporalis Muscle Fasciocutaneous Flap: A useful flap for the reconstruction of smaller defects in the cheek or jaw region.
4. Composite Flaps:
- Radial Forearm Free Flap with Bone: A composite flap that includes skin, subcutaneous tissue, and bone, often used for oral cavity or maxillary reconstruction.
- Fibula Free Flap: This flap involves transferring a portion of the fibula along with its skin and muscle components to reconstruct both soft tissue and bony defects.
5. Osteocutaneous Flaps:
- Fibula Osteocutaneous Flap: A reliable flap used to reconstruct both soft tissue and bone defects, commonly used in jaw reconstruction.
- Scapular Free Flap: This flap includes skin and bone from the scapula and is used for reconstructing defects in the mandible or midface.