A free jejunal graft was used either as a patch or as a conduit in 40 cases of reconstruction of the oral cavity, hypopharynx, and upper esophagus. Compared with previous intraoral reconstructive techniques using skin or myocutaneous flaps, one-stage free jejunal grafts result in low morbidity, rapid postoperative recovery, and no additional head and neck scars. Because of secure vascularization, the retention of temporary mandible implants is made safer. In addition to tongue reconstruction, facial contouring can also be achieved by the use of mesenteric fatty tissue. The well-vascularized physiologic lining created by utilizing the jejunal graft is highly resistant to mechanical stress and postoperative radiation therapy.
scite is a Brooklyn-based organization that helps researchers better discover and understand research articles through Smart Citations–citations that display the context of the citation and describe whether the article provides supporting or contrasting evidence. scite is used by students and researchers from around the world and is funded in part by the National Science Foundation and the National Institute on Drug Abuse of the National Institutes of Health.