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Brown, Joshua J.

0000-0002-4452-3298

A5001298940 | I2802841970

Mayo Clinic

The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center

Citations 1

Intraoperative Management of Fibular Free Flap With Chronic DVT : Case and Technique

Head & Neck | November 5, 2026 | Volume: No volume available | Issue: No issue available | Pages: No page available

10.1002/hed.70525 | PMID 42984413

ABSTRACT Background Chronic post‐thrombotic syndrome (PTS) involving the peroneal venae comitantes is an uncommon but potentially flap‐threatening finding during fibular free flap reconstruction that may not be detected on routine preoperative computed tomography angiography. We describe the successful management of extensive chronic PTS encountered unexpectedly during fibular free flap reconstruction for advanced oral cavity squamous cell carcinoma. Methods Following unsuccessful mechanical thrombectomy, arterial inflow was established before venous reconstruction to identify the dominant functional venous outflow pathway, followed by selective venous anastomosis. Results Early postoperative venous congestion was successfully managed with revision and a second venous anastomosis. The flap remained viable with excellent functional and oncologic outcomes at 1 year. Conclusion This case demonstrates that chronic PTS should not necessarily preclude fibular free flap reconstruction and presents a practical intraoperative and postoperative strategy for managing this challenging and previously underreported scenario.