Skin expansion in head and neck reconstructive surgery.

Area of Science:

• Plastic Surgery
• Head and Neck Surgery
• Reconstructive Surgery

Background:

• Congenital and acquired defects of the head and neck present significant reconstructive challenges.
• Soft-tissue reconstruction is crucial for restoring form and function in these cases.
• Tissue expansion is a recognized technique for soft-tissue augmentation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present the planning and surgical approach for single-area head and neck reconstructions using tissue expansion.
• To highlight a specific technical modification for improved outcomes.
• To evaluate the efficacy and complication rates of this technique.

Main Methods:

• A retrospective review of 155 head and neck reconstructions using tissue expansion.
• Detailed description of the planning and surgical technique, emphasizing periprosthetic capsule management.
• A novel technique for complete capsule removal without vascular compromise.

Main Results:

• One hundred fifty-five head and neck reconstructions were successfully performed.
• A major complication rate of 6% was observed.
• The technique facilitates complete periprosthetic capsule removal, contributing to favorable results.

Conclusions:

• Tissue expansion is a viable and effective method for soft-tissue reconstruction in head and neck defects.
• Complete removal of the periprosthetic capsule, using the described technique, is essential for optimal reconstructive results.
• The presented approach offers a valuable modification for improving outcomes in head and neck tissue expansion procedures.