DOUBLE FREE-FLAP RECONSTRUCTION OF MASSIVE DEFECTS INVOLVING THE LIP,CHIN, AND MANDIBLE

Two patients with massive, composite defects of the total lower lip, c hin, and anterior mandible underwent double free-flap reconstruction. A fibular osteoseptocutaneous flap was used to reconstruct the mandibl e and floor of the mouth and a radial forearm fasciocutaneous composit e flap, including the palmaris longus tendon, was used for total lower lip and chin reconstruction. Postoperatively, both patients had accep table cosmesis, were orally competent, and recovered adequate mandibul ar function. Double free-flap reconstruction is indicated only in thos e circumstances in which composite tissue requirements or massive tiss ue defects preclude reconstruction with a single free-tissue transfer. (C) 1998 Wiley-Liss, Inc.