The Free Fibula Flap

The free vascularized fibula flap has become the most common microvascular flap option for long bone and mandibular reconstruction following trauma and tumor extirpation. The free fibula flap can provide up to 26 cm of straight, cortical bone and has acceptable donor site morbidity. Published series have noted high rates of reconstructive success, with primary bony union rates of up to 80% and overall union of 97% following supplemental nonvascularized bone grafting. It is a true workhorse flap and one that all reconstructive plastic surgeons need to be familiar.