Osteomyocutaneous peroneal artery–based combined flap for reconstruction of composite and en bloc mandibular defects

The osteomyocutaneous peroneal artery‐based combined (OPAC) flap is a refinement of fibula osteoseptocutaneous flap, with the inclusion of partial soleus muscle based on an independent myocutaneous perforator.

Seventeen men underwent composite oromandibular reconstruction using an OPAC flap. Flaps were raised with 1 or 2 skin paddles and 2 to 3 bone segments. In 8 cases, a portion of soleus muscle was included.

All flaps survived, but partial failure occurred in 2 cases (11.7%). At a mean follow‐up of 25.3 ± 19.4 months, 6 of 12 patients tolerated a regular diet, 5 a soft diet, and 1 a liquid diet. Speech was normal in 2 patients, intelligible in 4, and slurred in 6.

Advantages of the OPAC flap include a single donor site, 1 pair of recipient vessels, versatile 3‐dimensional inset, adequate soft tissue augmentation, and better aesthetic and functional outcomes. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2009