In a free fibula flap procedure, which artery and vein are typically reanastomosed?

• A. Femoral artery and vein
• B. Radial artery and cephalic vein
• C. Peroneal artery and vena comitans
• D. Superficial temporal artery and vein

Answer: (C)

In a free fibula flap procedure, the peroneal artery and its accompanying veins, known as venae comitantes, are typically reanastomosed. The peroneal artery is a branch of the posterior tibial artery and provides the necessary vascular supply to the fibula and surrounding tissues. When harvesting the fibula for reconstruction, ensuring that the peroneal artery and the accompanying veins are intact is crucial for the viability of the flap. This allows for successful reanastomosis to recipient vessels at the recipient site, ensuring adequate blood flow to the flap tissue and enhancing the chances for a successful outcome.

The other options include arteries and veins that are not relevant to the free fibula flap procedure. The femoral artery and vein are more commonly associated with flaps in the thigh region, the radial artery and cephalic vein pertain to the forearm, and the superficial temporal artery and vein are involved with flaps in the head and neck area, rather than the lower leg where the fibula is harvested. Thus, the correct pairing for the free fibula flap is unquestionably the peroneal artery and vena comitans.