Current practices in microvascular reconstruction in otolaryngology-head and neck surgery

Objectives/Hypothesis Despite major advances in the field of head and neck microvascular free tissue transfer (MFTT) over the past several decades, there are no standardized perioperative regimens for the care of patients undergoing free flap reconstructive surgery, and continued variation in practice exists. This study aimed to report current trends in the field of MFTT performed by otolaryngologists, including surgeon training, institutional operative practices, and perioperative management. Study Design Cross-sectional survey. Methods A survey of Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education-accredited residency programs and American Head and Neck Society fellowship sites was conducted. Results Seventy-one (62.8%) programs responded, with 67 (94.4%) routinely performing MFTT and 23 (32.4%) having a dedicated microvascular fellowship program. Of institutions performing MFTT, 66 (98.5%) reported the use of a two-surgeon team, most commonly both otolaryngologists (76.3%). Institutional MFTT volumes and donor site frequency are reported. Postoperative care includes routine admission to the intensive care unit (75.2%), step-down unit (15.0%), or general care floor (8.1%). Postoperative flap monitoring practices, including modalities, personnel, and timing/frequency show institutional variation. Despite differences in postoperative monitoring regimen and management (sedation, anticoagulation, antibiotic use), surgeon-reported measures of flap success rate (95.7%, standard deviation [SD] 4.7%) and complication rate (6.8%, SD 2.4%) show little difference across institutions. Conclusions Many elements of MFTT perioperative care show continued variation at an institutional level. There is a notable shift toward the two-team approach within otolaryngology. Self-reported flap complication and success rates showed no significant differences based on perioperative care and monitoring regimen. Further study of perioperative practices should focus on standardization of care to improve overall outcomes in this complex patient population.