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Pull-through technique of scapular osteocutaneous flap to decrease frequency of positioning change
K Hasegawa1, H Miyamoto, K Fujita
1Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Shizuoka City Hospital, Shizuoka, Japan.
The British Journal of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery
|April 28, 2000
Summary
The pull-through technique for scapular flaps in head and neck reconstruction reduces patient repositioning and ischemic time. This method simplifies complex surgeries, improving outcomes for tumor removal and reconstruction.
Area of Science:
- Surgical Oncology
- Plastic Surgery
- Head and Neck Reconstruction
Background:
- Scapular flaps are used for head and neck reconstruction.
- Traditional scapular flap techniques require multiple patient repositioning and operative field preparations.
- This leads to increased operative time and potential complications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To introduce and evaluate the "pull-through" technique for scapular flap reconstruction.
- To reduce the number of patient repositioning maneuvers.
- To minimize the ischemic time of the scapular flap.
Main Methods:
- The pull-through technique involves raising the scapular flap first.
- The flap is tunneled through the axilla to rest on the chest.
- Tumor excision and reconstruction are performed with the flap in place, minimizing repositioning.
Main Results:
- The pull-through technique was successfully applied in 13 cases.
- The number of patient repositioning events was reduced.
- Substantial reduction in flap ischemic time was achieved.
- No complications were reported in the series.
Conclusions:
- The pull-through technique is an effective modification for scapular flap reconstruction.
- It simplifies the surgical process by reducing patient repositioning and operative time.
- This technique offers a safe and efficient alternative for head and neck tumor reconstruction.