Risk factors for wound complications in head and neck reconstruction: 773 free jejunal reconstruction procedures after total pharyngolaryngoesophagectomy.

BACKGROUND

Most studies that examined risk factors for wound complications after head and neck reconstruction analyzed various complications collectively. Moreover, they included a wide variety of resection areas and reconstruction materials. To overcome these limitations, both the resection area and reconstruction method were constrained in the present study.

METHODS

Patients who underwent free jejunal graft reconstruction after pharyngolaryngoesophagectomy for hypopharyngeal cancer were enrolled. The outcomes of interest were abscesses, fistulas, and cervical skin flap necrosis.

RESULTS

Abscesses, fistulas, and cervical skin flap necrosis developed in 19.3%, 11.3%, and 8.2% of 773 patients, respectively. A significant relationship was found between use of an open drain and abscess formation and between a longer operation time and cervical skin flap necrosis.

CONCLUSION

Our findings suggest that use of an open drain, cardiovascular disease, and a longer operation time are significant risk factors for abscess formation, fistula formation, and cervical skin flap necrosis, respectively.