Examination of possible predictors of complications after free tissue transfer to the head and neck for oncologic defects.

Abstract

The advent of vascularized free tissue transfer marked an incredible addition to the breadth of options available to the reconstructive surgeon when treating head and neck defects. The goal of this study is to determine if readily available laboratory tests may be used to stratify the risk for developing complications after free tissue transfer in specific patients. Institutional review board approval was obtained for a retrospective chart review of all patients who underwent free tissue transfer for reconstruction of oncologic head and neck defects between 2001 and 2010 by the senior author (R.O.D.). There were 107 free tissue transfers to the head and neck for oncologic defects during this period. A significant relationship was found between a preoperative hemoglobin less than 10 mg/dL and a postoperative albumin less than 2.5 mg/dL and complications. Preoperative hemoglobin less than 10 mg/dL and postoperative albumin less than 2.5 mg/dL seem to be useful as indicators of an increased likelihood of developing postoperative complications. Correction of these values preoperatively and postoperatively may lead to improved surgical outcomes.