Scanning electron microscopy of irradiated recipient blood vessels in head and neck free flaps

Journal Article · Wed Aug 01 00:00:00 EDT 1984 · Plast. Reconstr. Surg.; (United States)

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1097/00006534-198408000-00008· OSTI ID:6548548

Guelinckx, P J; Boeckx, W D; Fossion, E; Gruwez, J A

Irradiated and control recipient blood vessels in a similar patient population were studied with scanning electron microscopy. The vessels that were biopsied were then anastomosed to a free flap. Irradiated arteries display a significantly greater wall thickness and higher incidence of intimal dehiscence compared with control arteries. Fibrin deposition, microthrombi, and endothelium cell dehiscence are present more frequently in irradiated vessels than in control vessels. Details of the preparation and anastomotic technique for irradiated blood vessels are discussed. Microvascular surgery in irradiated human blood vessels carries with it a higher risk of thrombosis due to preexisting vessel wall damage. This risk can be minimized by experience and attention to detail.

• Research Organization: Department of General Surgery, Microsurgery, Katholic University of Leuven, Belgium
• OSTI ID: 6548548
• Journal Information: Plast. Reconstr. Surg.; (United States), Vol. 74:2
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

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