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J Reconstr Microsurg 2001; 17(1): 027-036
DOI: 10.1055/s-2001-14506
Copyright © 2001 by Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc., 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA. Tel.: +1(212) 584-4662

Elective Free-Tissue Transfer in Pediatric Patients

Akin Yücel1 , Yag˘mur Aydin1 , Şükrü Yazar1 , Fatiş Altintaş2 , Cemal Şenyuva1
  • 1Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Cerrahpaşa Medical Faculty, Istanbul University, Turkey and
  • 2Department of Anesthesiology, Cerrahpaşa Medical Faculty, Istanbul University, Turkey
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Publication History

Publication Date:
31 December 2001 (online)

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ABSTRACT

Twenty-two elective free-tissue transfers for reconstruction of various defects were performed in 20 pediatric patients over a 7-year period. Patient ages ranged from 5 to 17 years (mean: 12.5 years). There were six open wounds, six unstable scars, five tumor resection defects, three facial gunshot wounds, one facial paralysis, and one penis agenesis. Ten free flaps were transferred to the head and neck region, seven to the lower extremity, four to the upper extremity, and one to the genital area. Ten fasciocutaneous flaps, seven muscle or myocutaneous flaps, and five vascularized bone grafts were transferred. All flaps survived, except for one in an electrical burn patient. The success rate was 95 percent. No vessel spasm was observed. Children tolerated long operation periods better than adults. The recovery time after surgery was considerably shorter than in adults. The mean operative time was 6 hr, and the average hospital stay was 12 days. The mean follow-up period was 27 months. Results of this study indicate that microvascular free-tissue transfer is a safe and reliable method for the reconstruction of various defects in children.

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