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Semin Plast Surg 2023; 37(01): 053-056
DOI: 10.1055/s-0042-1760289
Review Article

Managing Oromandibular Hardware Failure after Free Flap Surgery

Aaron M. Domack
1   Department of Otolaryngology, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio
,
Dustin A. Silverman
1   Department of Otolaryngology, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio
,
Alice L. Tang
1   Department of Otolaryngology, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio
,
Chad A. Zender
1   Department of Otolaryngology, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio
,
Yash J. Patil
1   Department of Otolaryngology, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio
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Abstract

Hardware failure after oromandibular reconstruction using free tissue transfer can delay additional therapies directed at cancer treatment and prevent patients from returning to normal oral function. Understanding and strict adherence to principles of rigid fixation is critical in preventing complications. Early surgical intervention for hardware exposure as well as utilization of locoregional flaps may prevent the need for more extensive revision surgery.

Keywords

hardware failure - free flap - free tissue transfer - surgical complications


Publication History

Article published online:
30 December 2022

© 2022. Thieme. All rights reserved.

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