OBJECTIVETo evaluate the reliability and effectiveness of free flap transfer with double vein anastomosis for reconstruction of head and neck defects.

METHODSOne hundred and sixty-eight cases of free flap transfers with double vein anastomosis for head and neck reconstruction from September 1999 to April 2003 were reviewed. There were 92 males and 76 females. The age range was 11 to 79 years old, with the average of 44.6 years old. Data concerning the operation included site, stage and histology of tumor, defect description, design of free flap, recipient vessel free flap survival and complications.

RESULTSAmong 168 free flaps, there were 126 free fibula flaps, 32 radial forearm flaps, 7 rectus abdominis flaps, one scapular flap, one jejunal flap, and one anterolateral thigh flap. The overall success rate of free flap was 99.4%. One fibula flap was lost because of arterial thrombosis. No venous thrombosis occurred in this group.

CONCLUSIONFree flap transfer with double vein anantomosis for head and neck reconstruction improves the outflow of free flap, reduces the venous thrombosis rate, and ensures a high success rate of free flaps.