Prefabricated Composite Free Flaps for Tracheal Reconstruction: A New Technique

Abstract

Prefabricated composite free flaps are an attractive option for certain challenging cases of airway reconstruction.

Treatment of large tracheal defects after resection: Laryngotracheal release and tracheal replacement

“…In this context, the latest developments in stem cell tracheal bioengineering and allogenic tracheal transplantation could be of interest in the future[37]. Prefabricated composite free flaps are also an attractive option for certain challenging cases of airway reconstruction[44]. Interdisciplinary cooperation between head and neck surgeons and thoracic surgeons as well as those with experience in advanced bio-engineering Is necessary for solution of the most difficult problems.…”

Acquired tracheal dilatation after prolonged ventilation: An unusual treatment option

“…All authors agree on the need for a safe and long‐term solution that can provide an autologous well‐vascularized tissue, structurally supported, in order to prevent stenosis and scarring. Different surgical options are suggested in the literature, involving the employment of composite pedicled and free flaps (i.e., pectoral, deltopectoral, or forearm flaps) with or without costal cartilage graft, and also mucosal grafts in selected cases . Autologous mesenchymal stem cell‐derived chondrocytes, autologous cultured epithelial cell, and matrix derived from tracheal grafts are also well reported .…”

A Prefabricated, Tissue-Engineered Integra Free Flap

“…[2][3][4][5][6][7][8][9][10][11][12][13][14][15] Some patients, however, may not have adequate normal skin to allow prefabrication of a flap. Prefabrication involves altering the blood supply of an area of native skin-specifically, transposing a vascular pedicle under the skin and subcutaneous tissue and waiting for the vascular sprouts from the pedicle to supply the overlying skin.…”