Reconstruction using a free jejunal patch flap in salvage head and neck surgery after radiotherapy

Background: Chemoradiotherapy is a standard treatment for functional preservation in patients with advanced head and neck carcinoma. However, chemoradiotherapy increases the risk of postoperative complications. Aims/objectives: We report the usefulness of reconstruction using a free jejunal patch flap in treating recurrence or residual head and neck carcinoma after radiotherapy. Furthermore, we investigated the factors for the occurrence of postoperative complications in patients who underwent salvage surgery using a free flap transfer. Material and methods: This study included 41 patients with head and neck carcinoma who underwent salvage surgery using a free flap transfer, including 11 patients who underwent reconstruction using a free jejunal patch flap. Prognostic analysis was performed for the development of complications. Results: Ten jejunal patch flaps survived without microvascular problems. One patient underwent revision reconstructive surgery because of flap failure. However, no patient had a pharyngocutaneous fistula. Oral intake could be resumed in all patients at a median 14 days postoperatively. Multivariate logistic regression analysis indicated that the use of cutaneous flaps was significantly associated with the development of complications. Conclusions and significance: Free jejunal patch flaps can be considered useful for head and neck reconstruction after radiotherapy for early intake resumption and complication prevention.