Indications and Rationale for Use of Vascularized Fibula Bone Flaps in Cervical Spine Arthrodeses

Abstract

Analyzing their results and the literature, the authors propose that fibular free flaps are indeed a useful adjunct in difficult cervical spine stabilization procedures. Indications for this flap include combinations of the following situations: failed prior attempts at fusion, anterior cervical arthrodeses of three or more vertebral levels, osteomyelitis of the spine, and tumor cases when the spine has been or will be radiated.