Free gastroomental flap for head and neck reconstruction: assessment in an animal model.

This study was performed to evaluate the free gastroomental flap for the reconstruction of mucosal and soft tissue defects after ablative surgery for head and neck cancer. Its use in a dog model was assessed in terms of the feasability of the surgical technique, acid secretion by the gastric mucosa, changes in the cell population of the graft, and the possibility that the omentum may augment lymphatic drainage after cervical node dissection. Gastroomental flaps were harvested, based on the gastroepiploic artery, and transplanted to the neck in ten dogs. Neck dissection and creation of a defect in the floor of the mouth were followed by microvascular anastamosis of the gastroepiploic vessels to suitable recipient vessels in the neck. Following this, the flap was sutured into place, reconstructing the defect in the floor of the mouth. The omentum was draped over the carotid artery and into the upper mediastinum. Intraoral pH remained stable during a 6-month follow-up period and there was no stomatitis noted. Radionuclide images suggested that the omental lymphatics contributed to regional lymphatic drainage. Histologic examination following sacrifice at 6 months showed atrophy of gastric glands but no epithelial metaplasia. We conclude that the free gastroomental flap is feasible, provides immediate restoration of soft tissue bulk, supplies a mucosal surface that adapts to the oral environment, and may augment regional lymphatic drainage.