Abdominal-based free flaps in head and neck reconstruction.

[PURPOSE OF REVIEW] The head and neck reconstructive surgeon is intimately familiar with the anterolateral thigh, radial forearm, and parascapular flaps. This review serves to describe the major abdominal-based free tissue transfers in head and neck reconstruction that can be used as alternatives to these traditional workhorse flaps.

[RECENT FINDINGS] Abdominal-based free flaps, while not traditionally used in head and neck reconstruction, are great alternatives or second-line flaps. For example, the deep circumflex iliac artery flap is an excellent alternative to the fibular free flap due to its bone height and greater overall quality of life.

[SUMMARY] This review article serves to review the major abdominal-based free tissue transfers in head and neck reconstruction in order to expand the toolbox of the head and neck surgeon.