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J Reconstr Microsurg 1996; 12(8): 499-507
DOI: 10.1055/s-2007-1006622
ORIGINAL ARTICLE

© 1996 by Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc.

Selection of Appropriate Recipient Vessels in Difficult, Microsurgical Head And Neck Reconstruction

Ako Takamatsu, Takao Harashina, Takeo Inoue
  • Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Medical Center, Saitama Medical School, Japan
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Publication History

Accepted for publication 1996

Publication Date:
08 March 2008 (online)

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ABSTRACT

In a series of 327 cases of head and neck microsurgical reconstruction during 22 years beginning in 1974, the authors have reviewed 16 cases in which the first choice of recipient vessels was not available. The problems of selecting alternative and appropriate recipient vessels are discussed. Recipient vessels could be classified into three groups; adjacent small vessels that are usually considered to be the first choice; major vessels; and distant vessels. A correlation between the selection of substitute vessels and the region of reconstruction was found. Representative cases in each category are presented. In difficult cases in free-flap transfer, it is of prime importance to select healthy recipient vessels. Additionally, special precautions,including choice of anastomotic technique, are required.

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