510 - A five year retrospective review of fibula donor site closure and complications

A Davies A Henry J Edmondson M Kittur K Shah
Presented by: Anna Davies
Morriston Hospital

Introduction: The fibula free flap is frequently used to reconstruct composite defects of the oral and maxillofacial region. Despite being versatile and reliable reconstructive option, the literature recognises that a high proportion of fibula flap donor sites experience healing complications. We conducted a five-year retrospective review of all cases who underwent a fibula flap reconstruction to assess frequency and type of donor site complications within our unit. Methods: Theatre logs were used to identify all patients who underwent a fibula free flap between 2016 and 2020. Patient notes and clinic letters were used to record data including patient demographics, indication for surgery, co-morbidities, smoking status, method of donor site closure and complications at donor site. Results: Thirty-eight patients underwent fibula free flaps between 2016 and 2020. Complications at the donor site was experienced by 16 patients (42%). Three different techniques were used for closure of donor sites: 20 patients (53%) had a split-thickness skin graft (STSG), 16 (42%) primary closure and 2 (5%) a full thickness skin graft (FTSG). Both patients who had a FTSG had complications, 8 patients (50%) who had primary closure had complications and 6 patients (30%) who had a STSG. The most commonly occurring complications were wound dehiscence and wound infection. Conclusion: Donor site complications are common with the fibula free flap. It is difficult to compare the three different closure techniques for complication rate due to difference in group size, however STSGs appear to have fewer complications. 
Consent Statement: There are no details on individual patients reported within the abstract.

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