Outcome predictors in elderly head and neck free flap reconstruction: a retrospective study and systematic review of the current evidence

Free flap tissue transfer has become the gold standard for reconstruction of composite head and neck defects. We sought to investigate the efficacy and morbidity of these procedures in the elderly. We retrospectively reviewed 245 head and neck free flap procedures (234 patients). Patients were stratified by age group (≥ or <65 years). Univariate and multivariate analyses were used to evaluate the following primary outcomes – free flap survival, postoperative medical and surgical complications and 30-day mortality.