Microvascular Free Transfer of A Dorsalis Pedis Flap for Intraoral Lining
L. A. SHARZER
The oral cavity, it was thought, had certain characteristics that rendered it unsuitable as a free-flap recipient site (1, 2). Subsequent reports (3, 4, 5, 6, 7) indicated that it is possible to transfer free flaps safely to the oral cavity, and although this mode of reconstruction has not become the first-line treatment of choice, it is nevertheless an essential part of the reconstructive surgeon’s armamentarium.
INDICATIONS
Of the available free-flap donor sites for intraoral reconstruction, the dorsum of the foot has several distinct advantages. Its thinness and pliability make it especially suitable to replace oral lining. The free dorsalis pedis flap is of suitable size, and it has a long vascular pedicle. It is also possible to transfer it as an osteocutaneous flap by including the second metatarsus (see Chapter 207). Finally, the distance between the foot and the mouth makes a two-team approach very practical, without increased operating time.