Clinical Comparison of Scapular, Fibular, and Iliac Crest Osseal Free Flaps in Maxillofacial Reconstructions.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: This study compared the three most used composite flaps in maxillofacial reconstructions in our institute.

PATIENTS AND METHODS: Between 2000 and 2012, a total of 163 patients with mandibular, maxillary, and orbital defects received either scapular, fibular, or iliac crest osseal reconstructions in Helsinki University Hospital, Departments of Plastic Surgery and Maxillofacial Surgery. Data regarding the patient demographics, complications, and outcomes were analyzed.

RESULTS: There were 92 deep circumflex iliac artery flaps (56%), followed by 42 scapular (26%) and 29 fibular flaps (18%). The rate of flap loss was the highest in the deep circumflex iliac artery group (p = 0.001). Reconstructions using fibula were fastest (p = 0.001) and had lowest perioperative blood loss (p = 0.013). There were no significant differences in the number of early or late complications between the flaps, but donor site complications were more severe in deep circumflex iliac artery. Osteotomies as well as dental implants were safely performed in all flaps with equal results.

CONCLUSION: All three flaps of this study can be performed with awareness of the deep circumflex iliac artery flap being the least reliable alternative. The knowledge of the advantages and disadvantages of several osseal-free flap alternatives is beneficial in selecting the best suitable method for each individual patient requiring maxillofacial osseal reconstruction.