Purpose: The aim of this study is to compare the outcomes of Supraclavicular Artery Island (SAI) Flap versus Free Tissue Transfer for head and neck reconstruction.
Methods: We performed a systematic review of MEDLINE (via PubMed), Scopus and Cochrane Library database according to the PRISMA guidelines. Only comparative studies between the two techniques were included. Random-effects model meta-analyses were performed.
Results: Eight studies, reporting a total of 402 patients and same number of flaps, 165 of which underwent reconstruction using supraclavicular artery island flap and 237 reconstructed with free tissue transfer were identified. No statistically significant differences were observed regarding major complications, total flap necrosis, partial flap necrosis, post operative fistula formation, donor site dehiscence, recipient site dehiscence and total flap area.
Conclusion: Supraclavicular artery island flap and free tissue transfer seem to be comparable when used in head and neck reconstruction.
Keywords: Free flap; Free tissue transfer; Head neck cancer; Meta-Analysis; Supraclavicular artery flap; Systematic review.
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