This is a prospective multicentre randomised controlled trial evaluating whether intraoperative indocyanine green (ICG) fluorescence angiography improves outcomes in head and neck free flap reconstruction compared with standard clinical assessment of flap perfusion. Adult patients undergoing microvascular free flap reconstruction for oncologic, trauma, or benign head and neck defects will be randomised to either intraoperative ICG angiography or conventional clinical perfusion assessment. The primary outcome is partial flap loss requiring intervention within 30 days after surgery. Secondary outcomes include total flap loss, flap-related re-exploration, flap salvage, and postoperative complications.
Age ≥18 years at the time of inclusion
Scheduled to undergo microvascular free flap reconstruction as part of oncologic, trauma, or benign surgery in the head and neck area
Ability to understand study information and provide written informed consent
Known allergy to indocyanine green or iodine
Severe hepatic or renal impairment
Confirmed or suspected pregnancy
Breastfeeding