Clinicopathologic and therapeutic risk factors for perioperative complications and prolonged hospital stay in free flap reconstruction of the head and neck

Abstract

Several variables are associated with an increased risk of development of major complications following free flap reconstruction of the head and neck. Although many of these variables are irreversible, they aid risk stratification of patients undergoing free flap reconstruction, and assist clinicians in making treatment decisions, consenting, and providing patients with realistic expectations regarding their perioperative course.