Free tissue reconstruction following excision of head and neck arteriovenous malformations.

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate free tissue transfer (FTT) as a safe and effective reconstructive technique to treat arteriovenous malformations. Vascular lesions that present a significant clinical challenge to the head and neck reconstructive surgeon are often difficult to treat and can leave large, complex defects. METHODS: Retrospective, single-institution case series. RESULTS: We describe 8 patients treated for extensive lesions in various parts of the head and neck reconstructed with free flaps. These malformations have a tendency to recur, which was the case in 75% of our patients (6 of 8) during a mean follow-up period of 5 years. Revision procedures are expected at a mean rate of 6.75 per person in our series. CONCLUSIONS: Arteriovenous malformations are uncommon and challenging lesions. Use of FTT can ameliorate the large defects resulting from excision of these lesions.