Outcomes in Head and Neck Free Flap Reconstruction Among Patients With a History of Venous Thromboembolism

Abstract

Objective

To investigate if a history of venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a risk factor for complications in head and neck free flap surgery by assessing outcomes among patients with a history of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and/or pulmonary embolism (PE).

Study Design

Retrospective cohort study.

Setting

Single tertiary care center.

Methods

All patients undergoing head and neck free flap reconstruction at our institution between September 1, 2006, and April 2, 2020, were assessed for inclusion. Patients with and without a history of DVT or PE preoperatively were identified and grouped for comparison. Groups were compared for demographics, comorbidities, and 30-day complications. Significance was assessed with chi-square and binary logistic regression analyses.

Results

Of the 1061 patients meeting inclusion criteria, 40 (3.8%) had a history of VTE. These patients were significantly older (mean [SD], years: 67.8 [11.7] vs 63.0 [14.1], P = .038) and significantly more likely to have history of chemotherapy (35.0% vs 18.7%, P = .010) and stroke (27.5% vs 4.5%, P < .001). After accounting for patient characteristics via binary logistic regression, VTE was independently associated with an increased risk for postoperative thrombosis of the free flap pedicle (odds ratio [95% CI] = 3.65 [1.12-11.90], P = .032) and reoperation (2.45 [1.25-4.80], P = .009). Patients with history of PE had a significantly increased risk for flap failure (7.70 [1.77-33.52], P = .007). Prior VTE was not independently associated with an increased risk for medical complications or readmission.

Conclusion

Patients with a history of VTE may be at an increased risk for free flap compromise secondary to postoperative pedicle thrombosis. This risk should be considered in preoperative workup and postoperative monitoring.