Abstract
The main goal of head and neck reconstruction is the restoration of form and function.
Oncologic surgery makes this process more complex, as the preplanned defect can be
very different from its intraoperative counterpart. This emphasizes the role of preoperative
planning and a diverse reconstructive “tool box” that can accommodate a variety of
complicated defects. The other reconstructive goals are determined by the patient
with the aid of an interdisciplinary team. While multiple local and regional reconstructive
options are available, free tissue transfer provides a versatile and reliable option
for reconstruction—especially for complex orbital defects. Here the authors discuss
free soft tissue transfer options for orbital exenteration. This review will catalog
the advantages and disadvantages of the radial forearm, rectus abdominis, latissimus,
and anterolateral thigh.
Keywords
orbital reconstruction - orbital exenteration - free tissue transfer - head and neck
reconstruction - soft tissue reconstruction
