Donor-Site Morbidity after Osteocutaneous Free Fibula Transfer: Longitudinal Analysis of Stair Climbing Asymmetry and Functional Outcome

The autologous vascularised free fibula flap is currently considered the best option for facial reconstruction after oncological surgery, but its donor-site morbidity has not been fully examined. purpose was to evaluate changes in temporal and spatial kinematic gait parameters during stair climbing, as well symmetry. Fourteen patients (48 ± 16 years) were evaluated before six months harvest of a flap. Temporal variables both ascent descent phases did change surgery (2-way ANOVA, p > 0.05). During ascent, ankle flexion (healthy side, increased; donor reduced; low effect size) had significant time × side interaction. descent, hip significantly larger on (medium size). Significant interactions observed inversion knee unchanged; Medium sizes found differences (significant). No relevant spatio-temporal nor asymmetry emerged apart from joint kinematics. Overall, only statistically practically meaningful. Considering slight modifications variables, no major functional limitations following climbing descent.