Background and Aim: Head and neck cancer surgeries with free tissue transfer are complex procedures, and fluid management can grossly affect the microvascular anastomosis. We hypothesise that intra-operative goal-directed fluid therapy (GDFT) is the key to administer fluid individualised to a patient's requirement. The aim of this study was to observe the role of GDFT in perioperative flap outcome and length of hospital stay. Methods: A randomised prospective controlled study was performed in 106 patients undergoing composite resection of head and neck cancer with free tissue transfer. Patients in Group A received GDFT based on stroke volume variation whereas Group B received conventional fluid therapy intra-operatively. The endpoints of this study were total perioperative fluid, fluid boluses, vasopressor requirement, flap outcome and length of intensive care unit and hospital stay. Statistical analysis was done using Chi-square test. Results: The total intra-operative fluid given to both the groups was comparable but patients in Group A received more boluses and vasopressors compared to Group B during intra-operative period. The amount of fluid given in the first 24 hours post-operatively was significantly less in Group A (1807 + 476 ml) compared to Group B (2205 + 382 ml). Incidence of hypotension with tachycardia was observed in three patients in Group B and none in Group A. Poor flap outcome was observed in one patient in Group A versus four in Group B due to thrombosis. Conclusion: GDFT helps in early detection of fluid deficit and may avoid complications arising due to inadequate microvascular perfusion during the peri-operative period.
scite is a Brooklyn-based organization that helps researchers better discover and understand research articles through Smart Citations–citations that display the context of the citation and describe whether the article provides supporting or contrasting evidence. scite is used by students and researchers from around the world and is funded in part by the National Science Foundation and the National Institute on Drug Abuse of the National Institutes of Health.
customersupport@researchsolutions.com
10624 S. Eastern Ave., Ste. A-614
Henderson, NV 89052, USA
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Copyright © 2025 scite LLC. All rights reserved.
Made with 💙 for researchers
Part of the Research Solutions Family.