American Society of Hirudotherapy

Simultaneous Bi-Jaw Reconstruction: Double Free Fibula Flap Following Resection of Synchronous Oral Malignancy

Research article published in Head & neck (2026)

Last Updated: June 18, 2026Reviewed by: ASH Editorial Board
Research article — evidence reviewArticle reference
Evidence: Case reportClinical TrialsKhan et al. · Head & neck, 2026

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Simultaneous reconstruction of extensive maxillary and mandibular defects in oncological cases is a complex surgical challenge. METHODS: We report a case of a 56-year-old female with synchronous oral malignancy involving upper and lower alveolus. Simultaneous double free fibula osteo-cutaneous flaps were used for reconstruction of upper and lower alveolus reconstruction. RESULT: We were able to circumvent this challenging case with the use of double fibular free flaps. The reconstruction successfully restored form, function, and aesthetics. CONCLUSION: This case describes the first reported use of double fibular flap for simultaneous upper and lower jaw reconstruction in a case of synchronous oral malignancy.

Abstract sourced from PubMed (NCBI) for the cited record. See the original publication for the authoritative version.

Publication typeCase ReportsJournal Article

Summary

Peer-reviewed clinical and outcomes research relevant to medicinal leech therapy and its biology. Indexed in PubMed and verified against the NCBI record.

Why This Matters for Hirudotherapy

This single case report describes a 56-year-old woman with synchronous oral malignancy of the upper and lower alveolus reconstructed with simultaneous double free fibula osteocutaneous flaps, which the authors state is the first reported use of a double fibular flap for concurrent upper- and lower-jaw reconstruction, restoring form, function, and aesthetics. For hirudotherapy the link is that microvascular free flaps like these can develop postoperative venous congestion, and medicinal leeches are an established adjunct used to salvage such compromised flaps, so the case illustrates the high-stakes reconstructive setting where leech therapy may be invoked. The honest caveat is strong: this is a one-patient case report that does not involve or mention leeches, reports no leech-related outcome, and cannot support generalizable claims about either the surgical technique or hirudotherapy.

Citation

Simultaneous Bi-Jaw Reconstruction: Double Free Fibula Flap Following Resection of Synchronous Oral Malignancy.

Khan et al. · Head & neck, 2026

DOI

Added to ASH library: May 28, 2026 · Site last updated: June 18, 2026

This website provides educational information and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment recommendations. Medicinal leech therapy carries clinically meaningful risks and should be performed only by qualified clinicians under institutionally approved protocols. FDA 510(k) clearance for medicinal leeches is limited to specific indications; investigational and off-label discussions are labeled accordingly. For patient-specific guidance, consult a qualified healthcare provider.