THE JEJUNAL FREE-FLAP IN ORAL CAVITY AND PHARYNGEAL RECONSTRUCTION

The jejunal free flap is comprehensively reviewed in this article. Information on the historical development, the anatomy and physiology of the jejunum flap, and the particular suitability of this donor site for creation of free-tissue units is described. The correct abdominal harvest and vascular anastomosis techniques are also reviewed. A detailed description of how jejunal free flaps are placed into the oral cavity and oropharynx is then provided with particluar reference to the split jejunal flap and its disposition in these recipient sites. It is concluded that this flap continues to maintain an already well developed place in the armamentarium of the head and neck reconstructive surgeon.