Closure of the fibula free flap donor site with the Sure-Closure skin-stretching device.

Abstract

Fibula osseocutaneous free tissue transfer represents state-of-the-art reconstruction of the oromandibular complex following oncologic resection. The width of the fibula skin paddle is usually limited by the ability to achieve primary wound closure. In some cases the donor site requires skin grafting and subsequent surgical procedures to achieve effective closure, or placement of a tissue expander. The recent development of an indexed tissue advancement system (Sure Closure) makes it possible to take advantage of the viscoelastic properties of skin to close large wound deficits in a single procedure. The system secures and brings together wound edges by applying graduated pressure with a metered force approximator. A series of 12 fibula osseocutaneous free flap defects is presented, which have been successfully closed using this simple, convenient, and safe device.